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AST SpaceMobile eyes ULA Vulcan for expanded satellite launches

AST SpaceMobile said it may launch some of its direct-to-device satellites on ULA’s Vulcan rocket to broaden its launch options, joining SpaceX and Blue Origin in its plans. The company still targets about 45 satellites in orbit by year’s end, but no Vulcan contract has been announced and Vulcan’s own launch backlog (plus an SRB anomaly investigation) could limit near-term availability; meanwhile, a mid-June Falcon 9 launch for AST’s BlueBirds 8–10 is planned as New Glenn launches remain paused following the recent failure.

12 days ago•Source: SpaceNews

Bridenstine Named Quantum Space CEO to Drive Ranger’s National-Security Push

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14.225 min•21 days ago

Bridenstine Named Quantum Space CEO to Drive Ranger’s National-Security Push

Former NASA administrator Jim Bridenstine is joining Quantum Space as CEO, with Kerry Wisnosky remaining president to focus on operations and spacecraft development. Bridenstine says Ranger’s high maneuverability and refuelability make it attractive for national-security applications, in line with DARPA’s LASSO program and Space Force’s Andromeda program, with the first Ranger launch planned for Q2 2027. The Artemis Group will continue under senior partner Gabe Sherman as Quantum Space expands partnerships amid rising space-defense spending.

via SpaceNews