AST SpaceMobile (ASTS) received temporary approval from the Federal Communications Commission to test satellite connectivity using the 800 MHz spectrum with up to 100 commercially available devices.
The FCC granted AST SpaceMobile a 30-day special temporary authority allowing tests of its supplemental coverage from space capabilities across two distinct spectrum bands.
Specifically, the authorization covers the 817 MHz to 824 MHz earth-to-space uplink and the 862 MHz to 869 MHz space-to-earth downlink bands.
Supplemental coverage from space technology uses satellites to extend a mobile carrier’s ground network into areas where traditional cell towers provide no coverage.
The spectrum in question is part of the 800 MHz portfolio that T-Mobile (TMUS) recently transferred to Grain Management, a deal that AST SpaceMobile had previously voiced support for before the FCC.
Lower-frequency spectrum like 800 MHz is particularly valuable for direct-to-device services because its signals travel farther and penetrate buildings more effectively than higher-frequency airwaves.
That capability could prove critical for connecting ordinary smartphones in rural regions and cellular dead zones across the United States, where coverage gaps remain a persistent challenge.
Under the terms of the FCC’s approval, all testing must comply with AST SpaceMobile’s existing agreements with T-Mobile, and the authorization is strictly limited to controlled, non-commercial testing.
AST must also avoid causing harmful interference and is required to immediately halt operations if any interference does occur, according to the FCC’s approval document.
The FCC grant follows a May announcement by AT&T (T), T-Mobile (TMUS), and Verizon (VZ) to form a satellite-connectivity joint venture aimed at reducing coverage gaps across the country.
AST SpaceMobile currently holds partnerships with approximately 60 mobile network operators globally, including major U.S. carriers AT&T and Verizon, strengthening its position in the direct-to-device satellite market.
Retail investor sentiment surrounding ASTS on Stocktwits remained “bullish” over the past 24 hours, accompanied by “high” message volumes signaling strong community interest.
At least one Stocktwits user projected the stock could climb to $80 by the close of Friday’s session, implying a potential gain of roughly 11% from prevailing levels.
ASTS shares edged approximately 1% higher in pre-market trading following the FCC announcement, though the stock remains down about 14% so far in 2026.
