AST SpaceMobile to test satellite-based services on AT&T’s spectrum

The FCC will allow AST SpaceMobile to test transmissions from regular smartphones directly to its new satellite, the company announced. It appears AST SpaceMobile’s testing in the US will use spectrum licenses owned by AT&T.

“We appreciate the diligent support of the FCC in providing the experimental license for our upcoming satellite launch,” AST SpaceMobile CEO Abel Avellan said in a release issued Tuesday. “Together with other testing around the world, this license will enable us to conduct some of our most important testing here, at home, in the United States.”

AST SpaceMobile said it will conduct the testing “using 3GPP lowband cellular frequencies and Q/V-band frequencies,” though it did not provide details. However, the company’s FCC application, approved Monday, lists three spectrum licenses that are owned by AT&T.

Brian Goemmer, founder of spectrum-tracking company AllNet Insights & Analytics, said AST SpaceMobile will use AT&T’s 846.5-849MHz license in Midland, Texas; its 845-846.5MHz license in Honolulu; and its 788-798MHz license in Pine Springs, Texas. The last one is notable because it’s connected to FirstNet, a government agency working with AT&T to build a nationwide broadband network for public safety users.

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