The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has successfully launched the US-based AST SpaceMobile’s BlueBird Block-2 communication satellite, marking a significant milestone in India’s commercial space missions. The launch was carried out using the LVM3-M6 rocket from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota.
The mission placed the 6,100 kg BlueBird Block-2 satellite into Low Earth Orbit, making it the heaviest commercial payload ever launched by India. The satellite is designed to provide direct-to-smartphone cellular broadband coverage, bridging connectivity gaps across remote and underserved regions worldwide.
Officials highlighted that the launch demonstrates ISRO’s growing capability to handle record-weight payloads and strengthens India’s position in the global space launch market. The mission was undertaken under the aegis of NewSpace India Limited (NSIL), ISRO’s commercial arm, further expanding India’s footprint in international collaborations.
AST SpaceMobile’s BlueBird Block-2 is part of its vision to create the world’s first space-based cellular broadband network, enabling 4G and 5G signals directly to smartphones without the need for terrestrial towers. The successful deployment is expected to accelerate efforts toward global digital inclusion.
ISRO’s achievement underscores India’s technological prowess and its growing role as a reliable partner in the global satellite launch industry. The mission not only enhances India’s commercial space portfolio but also reflects its commitment to advancing innovation and connectivity on a global scale.
