Vodafone to offer satellites

LONDON: Mobile network operator Vodafone is backing a satellite venture that aims to broadcast a mobile broadband network from space, potentially boosting its 4G and 5G coverage for users without the need for a specialised handset.

Vodafone has invested US$25 million in Texas-based AST & Science’s space-based network, becoming the lead investor alongside Japan’s Rakuten.

The US company plans to launch the world’s first low-earth-orbit, low-latency satellite network called SpaceMobile that can connect directly to a smartphone.

Vodafone said SpaceMobile would enhance its network across Europe and Africa, but not Australia.