ISRO Achieves Milestone with Successful Launch of BlueBird Block-2 Satellite

Historic Launch by ISRO

New Delhi, Dec 24: On a momentous Christmas Eve, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) successfully launched its most powerful rocket, LVM3-M6, which placed a US communication satellite into orbit on Wednesday.

The Bengaluru-based space agency confirmed that the LVM3-M6 successfully deployed the BlueBird Block-2 satellite into its designated orbit.

This mission is part of a global Low Earth Orbit (LEO) constellation aimed at providing direct-to-mobile connectivity via satellite.

The constellation will facilitate 4G and 5G voice and video calls, text messaging, streaming, and data access for users worldwide.

Earlier that day, the 43.5-meter tall rocket launched at 8:54 AM from the second launch pad in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh.

After approximately 15 minutes of flight, the BlueBird Block-2 satellite successfully separated from the rocket and was placed into orbit.

Weighing in at 6,100 kg, this communication satellite marks the heaviest payload ever launched into Low Earth Orbit (LEO) from Indian territory, according to the space agency.

Following the successful mission, congratulatory messages flooded in, with Union leaders commending ISRO for its achievement.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised the organization, stating that this accomplishment lays a strong foundation for future projects, including the Gaganyaan human spaceflight initiative.

“This is a significant advancement for India’s space sector. The successful launch of LVM3-M6, which placed the heaviest satellite ever launched from Indian soil, the USA's BlueBird Block-2, into its intended orbit, is a proud milestone in our space journey,” the Prime Minister shared on social media.

The LVM3-M6, also referred to as the Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV-MkIII), is a three-stage rocket equipped with a cryogenic engine developed by ISRO’s Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre.

It utilizes two S200 solid rocket boosters to generate the substantial thrust needed for liftoff, which were developed by the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre in Thiruvananthapuram.

AST SpaceMobile has previously launched five satellites, Bluebird 1-5, in September 2024, providing continuous coverage across the United States and select other countries.

The company plans to launch additional satellites to enhance its network and has partnered with over 50 mobile operators globally.

The LVM3-M6 mission was conducted as part of a commercial agreement between NewSpace India Ltd (NSIL) and US-based AST SpaceMobile (AST and Science, LLC).