Sattelite internet access has become a popular alternative for operators that want to provide internet in remote communities. However, it has limitations that AST SpaceMobile tries to overcome.

Orange, the French telecom group, is moving to test space-based cellular broadband internet in one of its African markets.  The group signed a non-binding memorandum of understanding with AST SpaceMobile on March 25 in this framework.

Under the terms of the agreement, AST SpaceMobile will deploy its services through the BlueWalker 3 satellite with no additional ground. It will thus allow internet access to Orange users in the targeted market, through standard 3GPP frequency bands.

For Chris Ivory (photo), AST SpaceMobile chief commercial officer, with its space-based cellular broadband internet solution, "AST SpaceMobile seeks not only to fill cellular broadband coverage gaps for millions of existing subscribers but also to extend mobile service to areas which currently have little to none at all."

Like most telecom operators, Orange is currently taking new initiatives to meet the growing demand for quality telecom services in Africa. Satellite is one of the options it looks into. It has its limitations, however. For instance, sometimes, ground equipment transmitting satellite signals fails to effectively cover remote areas.  

Thanks to AST SpaceMobile's space technology, Orange will be able to bring the signal everywhere it is needed. Its users will be able to directly receive satellite signals. The memorandum of understanding signed by the two parties paves the way for discussions on a potential agreement for Orange to use the BlueBird satellite network being built by AST SpaceMobile.

Adoni Conrad Quenum