Thoughtful Space Innovation

Responsible space operations guide every decision we make, from how we build and operate our satellites to how we minimize interference and retire them safely.

Our BlueBird satellites are large by design because they are powerful. This allows us to deliver full broadband coverage worldwide with approximately 90 satellites – not thousands. We are committed to connecting the unconnected while building our network with transparency, care, and respect for our shared skies.

Mitigating Satellite Brightness and Protecting Astronomy

Ground-based telescopes require dark, uncluttered skies to capture faint celestial objects. We have a formal coordination agreement with the U.S. National Science Foundation and recognize the International Astronomical Union’s Dark and Quiet Skies guidelines to adopt best practices to reduce satellite brightness and avoid interference.

Our antennas are designed to reduce reflection, and we are engineering advanced surface coatings to further reduce reflection from our arrays

Low orbital altitude (700 km or lower) for higher orbital speed, spending less time in sunlight

Sharing high-precision orbital data with observatories to help schedule optimal observation periods

We can adjust satellite orientation during critical observation periods without losing operational capability

Collision Avoidance & Safe Deorbiting

Our satellites comply with international safety standards and follow NASA’s collision avoidance best practices through a Space Act Agreement. With only 90 satellites needed for global coverage, our approach inherently reduces orbital risk:

Larger spacing between satellites minimizes risk compared to mega-constellations

Fewer satellites means greater maneuverability and situational awareness

Satellites are operational for up to 10 years, a long lifespan for communication satellites in LEO, reducing replacement launches. Within five years after retirement, they deorbit and burn up entirely in the upper atmosphere.

Minimizing Radio Frequency Interference

As radio spectrum is a finite resource shared among many users, we are taking multiple steps to limit interference to other networks and services.

Our large arrays enable precision beamforming to strategically target coverage and paint around radio sensitive areas

Strategic gateway placement coordinated with the NSF to limit interference with other spectrum users

Amateur radio protection with commitment to use the 430-440 MHz band only during emergencies

Learn more about our commitment to responsible space operations. Read our blog

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