India Makes History: ISRO Successfully Launches BlueBird Block-2 Satellite for Space-Based Mobile Internet
In a remarkable achievement, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has once again demonstrated India’s growing prowess in space technology by successfully launching the BlueBird Block-2 communication satellite aboard the LVM3-M6 “Bahubali” rocket on Wednesday. The mission lifted off at 8:55 a.m. IST from ISRO’s Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh, marking a significant milestone in India’s space endeavors.
“Mission Success. The LVM3-M6 mission has successfully placed the BlueBird Block-2 satellite into its intended orbit,” ISRO announced on its official X account.
A Historic Launch
Weighing 6,100 kilograms, BlueBird Block-2 is the heaviest payload ever placed into Low Earth Orbit (LEO) by an LVM3 rocket, surpassing the previous record set by LVM3-M5 in November 2024, which carried a 4,400 kg satellite into Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO).
Developed by the US-based company AST SpaceMobile, this next-generation satellite is designed to provide direct-to-smartphone space-based broadband connectivity, bringing high-speed 4G and 5G mobile internet to areas where terrestrial networks are limited or non-existent.
This launch represents the 6th operational flight of the LVM3 launch vehicle, highlighting ISRO’s continued capability to handle complex, heavy commercial payloads and reinforcing India’s position as a reliable partner for international space missions.
Objectives of the Launch
The BlueBird Block-2 satellite was launched with several key objectives:
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Direct Mobile Connectivity from Space: Enable smartphones worldwide to access high-speed internet directly from the satellite, especially in remote or network-deprived regions.
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Advance Telecommunications Technology: Test and validate next-generation space-based mobile communication solutions.
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Promote Global Collaboration: Strengthen India’s role in international commercial satellite launches and space technology partnerships.
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Support Emergency and Disaster Communication: Provide reliable communication during natural disasters and areas with disrupted terrestrial networks.
Expected Benefits
The launch of BlueBird Block-2 promises transformative benefits:
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Global Mobile Internet Access: Bridging the digital divide by providing connectivity in underserved and remote areas.
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Boost to Disaster Management: Satellite-based communication can be a critical tool during emergencies.
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Economic and Technological Advantage: Reinforces India’s reputation as a dependable commercial launch partner, attracting international collaborations.
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Innovation in Telecommunications: Supports the development of next-generation 4G and 5G services delivered directly to mobile phones.
India-US Collaboration in Space
BlueBird Block-2 is AST SpaceMobile’s latest addition to its constellation, following the successful launch of BlueBird 1-5 satellites in September 2024. This is ISRO’s second major collaboration with US-based space initiatives, following the $1.5 billion NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar Mission (NISAR) launched earlier this year to capture high-resolution Earth images, capable of penetrating clouds, ice, and fog.
A Leap Toward the Future
The satellite, weighing 6.1 tonnes, demonstrates ISRO’s growing ability to manage heavy commercial payloads and its dedication to advancing global telecommunications from space. The mission heralds a new era of space-based mobile connectivity, promising to transform communication infrastructure, improve digital accessibility, and showcase India’s capabilities on the global stage.
Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh hailed the achievement, stating, “With the visionary guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, ISRO continues to achieve success after success, reaffirming India’s growing expertise in space technology.”
With this launch, India continues to make history, paving the way for innovative, satellite-driven solutions that connect people, communities, and economies across the globe.