ISRO Launches Heaviest-Ever Foreign Satellite from Indian Soil Aboard LVM3.
New Delhi:
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) today successfully launched its heaviest-ever foreign satellite from Indian soil, marking another major milestone in the country’s growing commercial space capabilities. The 6,100 kg BlueBird Block-2 communication satellite, built by AST SpaceMobile, USA, was launched aboard the LVM3-M6 launch vehicle and precisely placed into Low Earth Orbit (LEO).
The mission, conducted in the early hours of the morning from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota, represents the sixth operational flight of ISRO’s LVM3 rocket. With this launch, LVM3 has further established itself as a reliable heavy-lift launch vehicle for both national and international missions.
Next-Generation Space-Based Connectivity
BlueBird Block-2 is part of a next-generation constellation of communication satellites designed to provide space-based cellular broadband connectivity directly to standard mobile smartphones, without the need for specialized ground equipment. Once operational, the satellite is expected to significantly enhance global connectivity, especially in remote and underserved regions.
Weighing 6,100 kg, BlueBird Block-2 is not only the heaviest foreign satellite launched by ISRO, but also the largest commercial communications satellite deployed in Low Earth Orbit to date.
Dedicated Commercial Mission
The LVM3-M6 / BlueBird Block-2 mission was a dedicated commercial launch undertaken by ISRO using its most powerful rocket, highlighting India’s increasing role as a trusted global launch service provider. The satellite belongs to AST SpaceMobile, a U.S.-based company focused on delivering direct-to-device satellite communication services worldwide.
About the LVM3 Launch Vehicle
Developed indigenously by ISRO, LVM3 is a three-stage heavy-lift launch vehicle consisting of:
Two solid strap-on motors (S200),
A liquid core stage (L110), and
A cryogenic upper stage (C25).
The rocket has previously demonstrated its reliability by successfully launching prestigious missions such as Chandrayaan-2, Chandrayaan-3, and two OneWeb missions carrying a total of 72 satellites.
The previous LVM3 mission, LVM3-M5/CMS-03, was successfully completed on November 2, further reinforcing the vehicle’s consistent performance.
Boost to India’s Commercial Space Ambition
This successful launch underscores ISRO’s growing prominence in the global commercial launch market and showcases India’s advanced space technology and operational expertise. With missions like BlueBird Block-2, ISRO continues to strengthen its reputation as a dependable partner for international satellite operators, while contributing to the expansion of next-generation space-based communication services worldwide.