ISRO Achieves Major Milestone With BlueBird Block-2 Launch
By | Kalyani Mandle | PR Desk
Mumbai: The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is set to mark a significant achievement in its spaceflight history with the launch of the BlueBird Block-2 communication satellite on December 24, 2025. The mission uses ISRO’s heavy-lift LVM3-M6 rocket, carrying the heaviest payload ever placed into Low Earth Orbit (LEO) by an Indian launch vehicle.
The launch is scheduled for 8:54 am IST from the second launch pad at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota. A full 24-hour countdown commenced earlier, confirming the readiness of launch systems and mission operations.
Heaviest LEO Payload Ever Launched by India
Weighing approximately 6,100 kilograms, the BlueBird Block-2 satellite surpasses ISRO’s previous LEO payload record of about 4,400 kilograms, achieved during an earlier LVM3 mission.
Following liftoff, the satellite is expected to separate from the launch vehicle nearly 15 minutes into flight and enter a 600-kilometre Low Earth Orbit.
A key highlight of the spacecraft is its 223-square-metre phased-array antenna, making it one of the largest commercial communication satellites ever deployed in LEO. The advanced antenna design enables high-capacity connectivity directly to standard mobile devices.
ISRO–AST SpaceMobile Commercial Collaboration
The BlueBird Block-2 launch is conducted under a commercial agreement between NewSpace India Limited (NSIL)—ISRO’s commercial arm—and US-based AST SpaceMobile.
AST SpaceMobile aims to build the world’s first space-based cellular broadband network, enabling direct satellite-to-smartphone connectivity without the need for specialised hardware.
Once operational, the satellite network will support 4G and 5G services, including voice calls, video calls, messaging, internet access, and data streaming—especially in remote and underserved regions. The mission highlights India’s growing role as a reliable partner in the global commercial space market.
LVM3: ISRO’s Heavy-Lift Workhorse
The LVM3 rocket, also known as GSLV Mk-III, is ISRO’s most powerful launch vehicle. Standing 43.5 metres tall, it features a three-stage configuration, including an indigenous cryogenic upper stage developed by ISRO.
Two massive S200 solid strap-on boosters provide the thrust required during liftoff, enabling the vehicle to carry heavy payloads into LEO and beyond. The successful execution of this mission further validates LVM3’s capabilities for commercial and strategic launches.
Earlier BlueBird Missions and Future Expansion
AST SpaceMobile had previously launched five BlueBird satellites in 2024, which currently provide satellite-based cellular coverage across parts of the United States and select international regions.
The company plans additional launches in the coming years to expand global coverage and has already partnered with over 50 mobile network operators worldwide, signaling rapid growth in space-based mobile communication services.
