Satellites lock in launch cadence as market tightens

In quarterly calls, satellite operators said they have launches booked into 2027–2028 to support ongoing constellations amid a tight market. AST SpaceMobile has 12 satellites in orbit and 10 launches booked with two providers to deploy its 45-satellite BlueBird D2D network, prioritizing Falcon 9 flights while New Glenn remains grounded after a May explosion. The cadence targets roughly monthly or bi-monthly launches; HawkEye 360 and Spire Global also reported bookings through 2028 and are exploring alternative launch options and brokers to diversify. The industry is actively seeking additional launch capacity to mitigate third-party risk.