Bluebird-2 Mission

Why in News?

The LVM3-M6 / BlueBird Block-2 Mission successfully launched on December 19, 2025, into its intended orbit, from Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota.

• The BlueBird Block-2 Mission refers to the ISRO-launched commercial space mission that successfully placed the BlueBird Block-2 communication satellite.
• BlueBird Block-2 Satellite – It is a communication satellite, part of the next generation of BlueBird 6 communication satellites.
• Orbit - Deployed in Low Earth Orbit (at an altitude of approximately 520 km).
• Payload- 6,100 kg.
• Developed by – US-based AST SpaceMobile, became the first spacecraft to be launched from Indian soil.
• Commercial space push - The mission was executed under a commercial agreement between NewSpace India Limited (NSIL), ISRO’s commercial arm and AST SpaceMobile.
• Launch Vehicle – LVM3 (ISRO’s heaviest rocket, also known as GSLV Mk-III).
• Flight Number – It is the 6^th operational flight of LVM3.
• Purpose – It is designed to enable direct-to-mobile connectivity, providing 4G and 5G voice and video calls, text messaging, streaming and data services directly to standard mobile smartphones.
• It represents a major step toward global direct-to-device communication networks.
• Significance – It is the largest commercial communications satellite deployed in LEO & the heaviest payload launched by LVM3 from Indian soil.
• This dedicated commercial mission showcases ISRO’s growing role in global satellite launches.

To know about LMV-3, click here

References

1. The Hindu | Bluebird Block-2 Mission launched by LVM-3
2. ISRO | LVM3-M6 / BlueBird Block-2 Mission