PM Modi Applauds ISRO's Successful LVM3-M6 Mission
PM Modi Commends ISRO's Achievement
On Wednesday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) for the successful LVM3-M6 mission, describing it as a significant milestone for India's space sector and a proud moment in the nation's expanding space endeavors. Sharing a video of the launch on social media, he highlighted how this mission showcases India's growing heavy-lift launch capabilities and its strengthening position in the global commercial launch market.
Details from PM Modi's Post
In a post on social media, PM Modi remarked, "A crucial step for India's space sector... The successful launch of LVM3-M6 has placed the heaviest satellite ever launched from Indian soil, the USA's Bluebird Block-2, into its designated orbit, marking a proud milestone in India's space journey."
Further Remarks by PM Modi
He further stated, "This strengthens India's heavy-lift launch capacity and solidifies our growing role in the global commercial launch market. It also reflects our efforts towards an Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India). Congratulations to our dedicated space scientists and engineers. India continues to reach new heights in the realm of space!"
Minister of State for Science and Technology Congratulates ISRO
Union Minister of State for Science and Technology, Jitendra Singh, also congratulated ISRO for the successful launch. In a post on social media, Singh stated, "Congratulations to Team ISRO for the successful launch of LVM3-M6 carrying Bluebird Block-2. Under the visionary guidance of PM Narendra Modi, ISRO is achieving success after success, reaffirming India's growing strength in space technology."
ISRO Makes History with LVM3-M6 Mission
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) successfully launched the next-generation American communication satellite, Bluebird Block-2, using its heaviest launch vehicle, LVM3-M6, as part of a dedicated commercial mission. The 43.5-meter tall rocket, equipped with two solid boosters, lifted off from the second launch pad at the space center located approximately 135 kilometers east of Chennai at 8:55 AM after a 24-hour countdown. ISRO confirmed that Bluebird Block-2 was successfully placed into orbit.
Mission Details and Objectives
This mission is being conducted under a commercial agreement between NewSpace India Limited (NSIL) and the US-based AST SpaceMobile. NSIL is ISRO's commercial arm. The Bluebird Block-2 mission is part of a global LEO (Low Earth Orbit) satellite constellation aimed at providing direct mobile connectivity through the satellite. The mission intends to offer 4G and 5G voice-video calls, messaging, streaming, and data services to users anywhere, anytime.
Launch Timing Adjustments
ISRO had initially scheduled the launch for 8:54 AM on Tuesday but revised it to 8:55 AM on Wednesday. Sources from ISRO indicated that this adjustment was made to ensure the satellite was placed into its desired orbit in accordance with the timing changes. An official mentioned that the original launch time was set for 11:30 AM but was gradually adjusted to 8:55 AM.