AST SpaceMobile's Block 2 BlueBird 7 satellite was placed into a lower than planned orbit during the New Glenn 3 mission and will be de-orbited, with costs recoverable under insurance.
Key takeaways
Block 2 BlueBird 7 satellite placed into lower than planned orbit on April 19, 2026, during New Glenn 3 mission.
Satellite separated and powered on but altitude too low for thruster operations; will be de-orbited.
Satellite cost expected to be recovered under insurance policy.
BlueBird 7 would have been the eighth satellite in low Earth orbit.
Production ongoing through BlueBird 32; BlueBird 8-10 ready to ship in ~30 days.
Continues to expect orbital launches every 1-2 months in 2026, targeting ~45 satellites by year-end.