ISRO Makes History with ‘Bluebird Block-2’ Launch; Set to Revolutionize Mobile Networks

In yet another historic achievement, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) successfully launched its LVM3-M6 mission, carrying the Bluebird Block-2 communication satellite. The rocket lifted off from the second launch pad at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh, at 8:54 AM on Wednesday.

About the Mission
The Bluebird Block-2 satellite, weighing 6,100 kilograms, is the heaviest payload ever deployed by an LVM3 rocket into Low Earth Orbit (LEO). Previously, the heaviest payload was the LVM3-M5 Communication Satellite-03 at approximately 4,400 kilograms, launched successfully on 2 November 2025.

This commercial mission is a joint venture between NewSpace India Limited (NSIL), ISRO’s commercial arm, and the U.S.-based AST SpaceMobile. The satellite is intended to operate at an altitude of 600 kilometers, providing next-generation high-speed cellular broadband connectivity directly to smartphones. The mission is expected to bring significant improvements to mobile network connectivity, including faster 4G and 5G voice, video, messaging, streaming, and data services globally.

Key Highlights of the Bluebird Block-2 Mission

• The LVM3 rocket stands 43.5 meters tall and is a three-stage vehicle equipped with a cryogenic engine developed by ISRO’s Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre (LPSC).
• Two S200 solid rocket boosters, developed by Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre, provide the additional thrust required for launch.
• The Bluebird Block-2 satellite is expected to separate from the rocket approximately 15 minutes after launch.
• AST SpaceMobile, which launched Bluebird-1 through Bluebird-5 between September 2024 and 2025, has already established continuous internet coverage in the U.S. and select other countries. The company plans to deploy additional satellites and has partnered with over 50 mobile operators worldwide to expand its network.

ISRO Chairman V. Narayanan had offered prayers at the Shri Venkateswara Swami Temple in Tirumala prior to the launch, marking the mission as a significant milestone in India’s space and commercial satellite program.

The Bluebird Block-2 mission not only strengthens India’s space capabilities but is poised to transform global mobile communications, offering reliable, high-speed internet access anywhere on the planet.