Core Insights - Vodafone and AST SpaceMobile announced a plan to establish a Europe-led satellite constellation aimed at providing connectivity services between satellites and smartphones for commercial and government applications [1][2] - The satellite constellation's European operations center will be located in Germany, with potential sites near Munich or Hanover [1] - The project is expected to compete with SpaceX's Starlink, which has over 8,000 satellites deployed [2] Industry Overview - The demand for broadband internet in remote areas is driving satellite service providers to offer mobile network connectivity [1] - According to Novaspace, the satellite-to-phone connectivity market could exceed $10 billion by 2033 [1] - Vodafone and AST SpaceMobile's satellite constellation will support broadband services, public safety, and disaster relief efforts for European mobile network operators [1] Company Developments - AST SpaceMobile plans to deploy up to 60 satellites by 2026, currently operating 6 satellites [2] - Vodafone, as an investor in AST SpaceMobile, reported interest from operators in 21 EU member states for satellite-based communication services [2] - The commercial operation of the satellite constellation is planned to begin in 2026, providing a "sovereign satellite solution" for secure satellite communication services in Europe [2]