Post by : Meena
Hassan
On the morning of December 24, 2025, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) celebrated a remarkable success with the launch of the BlueBird Block-2 communication satellite via its heavy-lift Launch Vehicle Mark 3 (LVM3).
Launch took place at 8:55 a.m. from the second launch pad of the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota. Within just 15 minutes, the rocket effectively placed the satellite in its designated low Earth orbit, showcasing significant precision.
This mission represents two significant milestones for India's space initiatives. The BlueBird Block-2 is not only the largest commercial communications satellite ever to be placed in low Earth orbit, but at 6,100 kilograms, it is also the heaviest satellite launched by an Indian rocket from its native soil.
ISRO Chairman Dr. V. Narayanan confirmed that the satellite was positioned into orbit with impressive accuracy, reporting an orbital deviation of less than two kilometers. He noted the performance as exemplary among global launch vehicles. This mission also stands out as the first dedicated commercial endeavor carried out by India for a client from the United States.
With this launch, India has successfully positioned 434 satellites for 34 different nations, bolstering its position as a dependable global service provider in satellite launch capabilities.
Engineered by AST SpaceMobile, USA, the BlueBird Block-2 satellite belongs to an upcoming constellation aimed at delivering direct-to-mobile satellite connectivity. The service will provide 4G and 5G technology directly to standard smartphones, facilitating voice, video, messaging, data, and streaming without the need for specialized devices.
The satellite is equipped with an extensive 223-square-metre phased array antenna, affirming its status as the largest commercial communications satellite launched into low Earth orbit.
This launch marked the 104th mission conducted from Sriharikota and the ninth successful mission of the LVM3 vehicle, maintaining an impeccable success rate of 100 percent for dedicated commercial missions. Remarkably, this launch occurred merely 52 days after the previous LVM3 mission on November 2, 2025, setting a record for back-to-back missions.
Officials emphasized the need for extensive collaboration among ISRO teams, reflecting the progress in India's heavy-lift launch capabilities.
The successful LVM3-M6 mission enhances India's preparation for forthcoming projects, such as the uncrewed and crewed Gaganyaan missions, growing commercial launch services, and deeper international collaboration in space exploration.
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