The future of mobile connectivity is being shaped not just on Earth, but in orbit. As demand grows for seamless, resilient communication—especially in hard-to-reach areas—Ligado is helping unlock the potential of space-based networks to deliver mobile services directly to everyday devices. From today’s Direct-to-Device (D2D) services to the broadband systems of tomorrow, Ligado is laying the groundwork for a more connected North America.
GSO Direct-To-Device: Delivering Today
Ligado is already providing first generation D2D services through our licensed Mobile Satellite Services (MSS) spectrum and geostationary SkyTerra-1 satellite network. These narrowband capabilities enable both emergency SOS and basic messaging, supporting millions of devices across the U.S. and Canada to stay connected when it matters most. It’s a critical first step in making satellite connectivity a mainstream feature of mobile life.
Licensed MSS Spectrum: Structured for Broadband
Ligado has strategically coordinated and configured its L-Band spectrum into channels that are usable for broadband services and compatible with terrestrial 5G networks. These efforts required significant investments and successfully secured access to over 40 MHz of L-Band spectrum creating contiguous 10 MHz channels that will support the demand for space-based mobile broadband.
LEARN MORE ABOUT MSS SPECTRUM FOR D2D
A New Layer of Connectivity: Collaboration with AST SpaceMobile
Ligado and AST SpaceMobile are collaborating to enable broadband service directly to everyday mobile devices in the United States and Canada. The hosting of Ligado’s L-Band spectrum on AST SpaceMobile’s low Earth orbit network is a sea change with the potential to materially accelerate access to broadband D2D services. Together, we’re helping to expand the reach of mobile networks and to redefine what’s possible in satellite communications.
Orbiting Toward Innovation: Making Space-Based Mobile Broadband a Reality
Today, Ligado filed a modification application with the FCC to enable flexible use of our L-Band spectrum for space-based mobile broadband services in the United States. The filing would modify our existing MSS L-Band license to add an MSS system (“SkyTerra Next”) that will be hosted on AST SpaceMobile’s satellite constellation in low Earth orbit (LEO) and complement the company’s existing geostationary SkyTerra operations. Introducing NGSO technology within the L-Band will enable more efficient and intensive use of mid-band spectrum, supporting the industry’s evolution from niche applications to widespread high throughput low latency D2D services. This advancement will foster a competitive D2D market, promote innovation and vendor diversity, and accelerate the development of new use cases – ultimately driving progress towards universal broadband connectivity.
The Bottom Line
Our vision is clear: to harness our assets—spectrum, satellite infrastructure, and strategic partnerships—to unlock the full potential of space-based mobile connectivity. By enabling innovation, expanding consumer choice, and fostering market competition, we are making space-based services an integral part of the mobile ecosystem and everyday life.