Satellite Operators Secure Launch Deals Amid Constrained Market

## Securing Launch Capacity in a Constrained Market Amid a constrained launch market, satellite operators are increasingly emphasizing to investors and customers that they have secured launch capacity, even if it is uncertain when those vehicles will be available. This emphasis is a response to the industrywide scramble to secure access to space, as several companies have noted in their second-quarter earnings calls. AST SpaceMobile, a company deploying a broadband direct-to-device constellation, has secured launches for its upcoming satellites, despite the delay caused by the May 28 explosion of a Blue Origin New Glenn rocket. The company has 12 satellites in orbit, including six launched on two Falcon 9 missions, and has 10 launches booked with two different providers. AST SpaceMobile's president, Scott Wisniewski, stated that the company is targeting a cadence of every month or two on average for its launches. ## Rideshare Capacity and Alternative Launch Options Other companies that have relied on SpaceX rideshare launch services have also emphasized their secured launch capacity. HawkEye 360, a company using radio-frequency geolocation applications, has launches booked through 2028 for its satellites. The company's chief executive, John Serafini, acknowledged uncertainty beyond 2028, citing concerns that SpaceX might reduce or eliminate some of its Falcon 9 Transporter or Bandwagon missions. HawkEye 360 is considering alternative launch options from companies such as Firefly Aerospace and Stoke Space, as well as Rocket Lab. Spire Global, another frequent user of SpaceX rideshare launches, has also secured launch capacity through 2028. The company's chief executive, Theresa Condor, stated that with launch capacity reserved, Spire can keep adding collection capacity on its own timeline, even in a constrained launch market. ## Mitigating Risks and Exploring Alternative Options AST SpaceMobile's chief financial officer, Andy Johnson, stated that the company is weighing partnerships and/or acquisitions to further vertically integrate its business and mitigate risks associated with third-party launch providers. However, with few options available for acquiring a launch provider that would provide near-term capacity, the company is exploring alternative options. In conclusion, satellite operators are emphasizing their secured launch capacity in a constrained market, despite uncertainty about when those vehicles will be available. Companies are exploring alternative launch options and considering partnerships and/or acquisitions to mitigate risks associated with third-party launch providers.