The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has successfully launched the LVM3-M6 mission on December 24, 2025, marking a significant achievement in its commercial endeavors. The mission deployed the BlueBird Block-2 satellite, a next-generation communication satellite for US-based AST SpaceMobile, into Low Earth Orbit (LEO).
Key Highlights of the Mission:
- Commercial Agreement: The mission was executed under a commercial agreement between NewSpace India Limited (NSIL), ISRO's commercial arm, and AST SpaceMobile.
- Satellite: The BlueBird Block-2 satellite is designed to provide high-speed cellular broadband directly to standard mobile smartphones. It is part of AST SpaceMobile's plan to build the first space-based cellular broadband network.
- Heaviest Payload: BlueBird Block-2, weighing 6,100 kg, is the heaviest payload ever placed into LEO by the LVM3. It also holds the distinction of being the largest commercial communications satellite ever deployed into LEO, featuring a 223-square-meter phased array antenna.
- Launch Vehicle: The LVM3 (Launch Vehicle Mark 3), also known as GSLV MkIII, is ISRO's heavy-lift launch vehicle. It is a three-stage vehicle with two solid strap-on motors, a liquid core stage, and a cryogenic upper stage.
- Mission Objective: The mission aims to advance direct-to-mobile satellite connectivity, enabling 4G and 5G services on standard smartphones without specialized equipment. This will help bridge the digital divide and improve communication resilience in remote areas.
- Orbit: The BlueBird Block-2 satellite was placed into a circular orbit at an altitude of approximately 520 km with an inclination of 53 degrees.
- Milestones: This launch marked the sixth operational flight of the LVM3 and ISRO's 104th launch from Sriharikota. It was also the third dedicated commercial mission for LVM3.
LVM3 Rocket Specifications:
The LVM3 is a 43.5-meter tall, three-stage launch vehicle. It has a lift-off mass of 640 tonnes and a payload capacity of 4,200 kg to Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO). The vehicle configuration consists of two solid strap-on boosters (S200), a liquid core stage (L110), and a cryogenic upper stage (C25).
BlueBird Block-2 Satellite:
The BlueBird Block-2 satellite is part of a global LEO constellation designed to provide direct-to-mobile connectivity. It will enable 4G and 5G voice and video calls, texts, streaming, and data for everyone, everywhere, at all times. The satellite features a 223 m² phased array, making it the largest commercial communications satellite ever deployed into low Earth orbit.
Significance of the Mission:
The successful launch of the LVM3-M6 mission is a significant milestone for ISRO and India's space program. It demonstrates ISRO's growing capabilities in the global commercial space market and reinforces its role as a trusted partner for international providers of commercial satellite services. The mission also highlights the potential of LEO connectivity to bridge the digital divide and improve communication access worldwide.
Past LVM3 Missions:
The LVM3 has a proven track record of successful missions, including the launch of Chandrayaan-2, Chandrayaan-3, and two OneWeb missions carrying 72 satellites. The previous launch of LVM3 was the LVM3-M5/CMS-03 mission, which was successfully accomplished on November 2, 2025. The OneWeb India-1 mission was launched on October 23, 2022, followed by the OneWeb India-2 mission on March 25, 2023, deploying 36 satellites each.
With the success of the LVM3-M6 mission, ISRO continues to solidify its position as a major player in the global space industry, offering reliable and cost-effective launch services for commercial and scientific payloads.
