New Delhi: The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is set for a landmark commercial mission today as it launches the BlueBird Block-2, the heaviest communication satellite ever flown on its LVM3 rocket. The liftoff is scheduled for 8:54 am IST from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre.
The mission marks another major step in India’s growing role in global commercial space launches, especially in next-generation satellite communications.
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What is BlueBird Block-2?
BlueBird Block-2 is a 6,100-kg next-gen communication satellite, making it the heaviest payload placed into Low Earth Orbit (LEO) in the history of ISRO’s LVM3 programme. Until now, the record was held by a 4,400-kg satellite launched on the LVM3-M5 mission.
Designed for direct-to-mobile connectivity, the satellite is part of a global LEO constellation aimed at delivering cellular broadband straight to smartphones, without the need for special hardware.
About the LVM3-M6 Rocket
The satellite will ride aboard ISRO’s heavy-lift LVM3, also known as Gaganyaan’s launch vehicle. Standing 43.5 metres tall, the three-stage rocket uses two powerful S200 solid boosters for liftoff, followed by a liquid core stage and a cryogenic upper stage.
Roughly 15 minutes after launch, BlueBird Block-2 is expected to separate successfully into its designated orbit at around 600 km altitude.
Why ISRO Is Launching This Satellite
This mission is being carried out under a commercial agreement between NewSpace India Ltd (NSIL) and US-based AST SpaceMobile.
AST SpaceMobile is building the world’s first space-based cellular broadband network that works directly with standard smartphones. BlueBird Block-2 features a massive 223 sq m phased-array antenna, making it the largest commercial communications satellite deployed in LEO so far.
The constellation will eventually support 4G and 5G voice calls, video, messaging, streaming and data services across remote and urban regions worldwide. AST has already launched five BlueBird satellites in September 2024 and has partnerships with over 50 mobile operators globally.
How and Where to Watch the Launch Live
Viewers can watch the BlueBird Block-2 launch live on:
- ISRO’s official YouTube channel
- ISRO’s official website
- ISRO’s social media handles, including X (formerly Twitter)
The live stream will begin ahead of the 8:54 am IST liftoff today, December 24.
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ISRO Chairman Offers Prayers Ahead of Mission
Ahead of the mission, ISRO Chairman V Narayanan visited the Sri Venkateswara Swamy Temple in Tirumala on December 22, seeking blessings for the success of the launch.
With BlueBird Block-2, ISRO not only pushes the limits of its heavy-lift capability but also strengthens India’s position as a trusted launch partner for cutting-edge global communication networks.
