You know the launch market is tough when satellite companies start building rockets
Summary
AST SpaceMobile, a Texas-based satellite company, announced plans to build a medium-lift rocket called Blacklift, with a stated capacity of 20 metric tons to low-Earth orbit and commercial launches targeted for late 2028. The announcement highlights how satellite operators are considering building rockets as they seek reliable launch capacity, while earlier rocket programs suggest development often takes several years.Key Facts
- AST SpaceMobile said it is developing the Blacklift rocket.
- The company stated that Blacklift will carry 20 metric tons to low-Earth orbit.
- AST SpaceMobile said it aims to begin commercial launches in late 2028.
- The article says satellite operators planning large constellations need to arrange launch capacity years ahead or consider developing their own rockets.
- SpaceX announced the Falcon 9 in 2005 and reached orbit with it after a reported development period of 4.7 years.
- Of several U.S. medium- to heavy-lift rockets announced since 2015, the article says only United Launch Alliance's Vulcan had reached orbit at the time of writing.
- Vulcan took 8.7 years to reach orbit, according to the article.
- The article says the development records of existing launch companies suggest a new medium- or heavy-lift rocket typically takes five to nine years from public announcement to its first orbital launch.
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