Quick Reads
- ISRO successfully launched the BlueBird Block-2 communication satellite on December 24, 2025.
- The mission used the LVM3-M6 heavy-lift rocket from Sriharikota.
- At 6,100 kg, this is the heaviest payload LVM3 has ever placed into low Earth orbit (LEO).
- BlueBird Block-2 was launched under a commercial contract with U.S. firm AST SpaceMobile.
- The satellite will help provide direct-to-mobile 4G/5G coverage without specialised hardware.
- The launch was praised by national leaders and highlights India’s growing role in global space commerce.
Where It Happened
The launch took place at the Second Launch Pad of the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh.
This is India’s primary facility for large rocket missions, located on the east coast and known for both national and international satellite launches.
How It Happened
Early on December 24, 2025, at 08:55 AM (IST), the LVM3-M6 rocket lifted off carrying the BlueBird Block-2 satellite.
After a flight of about 15 minutes, the satellite separated and was placed into a Low Earth Orbit at about 520 km altitude. (
The mission was a dedicated commercial launch carried out by NewSpace India Limited (NSIL), the commercial arm of ISRO, in partnership with AST SpaceMobile, a U.S. company.
BlueBird Block-2 is part of a global constellation aimed at delivering broadband connectivity directly to regular mobile phones without requiring special ground terminals.
This flight marks the sixth operational mission of the LVM3 vehicle and demonstrates growing confidence in India’s ability to handle large, complex commercial payloads.
Why It Matters
At 6,100 kg, BlueBird Block-2 sets a new record for the heaviest satellite launched by ISRO into low Earth orbit, surpassing previous missions.
The success strengthens India’s position in the global commercial launch market and broadens its collaboration with international partners.
Political leaders, including the Prime Minister, celebrated the achievement as a “significant milestone” in India’s space journey, highlighting technological advancement and international trust in Indian launch capabilities.
