ISRO Launches Heaviest Satellite BlueBird Block-2

● On December 24, 2025 ISRO launched the US based AST SpaceMobile’s BlueBird Block-2 communication satellite using its LVM3-M6 rocket (Baahubali) from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh.

● ISRO Chairman V. Narayanan praised it as the heaviest satellite (6,100 kg) ever launched from Indian soil by an Indian vehicle, injected with pinpoint accuracy into a 518.9 km Low Earth Orbit.

● It is executed under NSIL - AST SpaceMobile agreement. It’s ISRO’s 434th satellite launch for 34 countries.

● The LVM-3, also known as Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle Mk III or Bahubali, is ISRO’s new heavy lift launch vehicle. It is a three stage launch vehicle comprising two solid strap-on motors (S200) (Stage-I), a liquid core stage (L110) (Stage-II) and a cryogenic upper stage (C25) (Stage-III).

● BlueBird Block-2 stands as the biggest commercial communications satellite launched into Low Earth Orbit so far. AST SpaceMobile designed it for a constellation that provides direct to mobile connectivity.

● Unlike conventional satellites needing ground stations, Bluebird connects straight to everyday smartphones for worldwide 4G/5G calls, video, texts, streaming, and data. It makes it possible for people in remote, rural or disaster hit areas to stay connected.

● ISRO’s achievements sharpen India’s competitive position in the global commercial launch market. With affordable, reliable rocket services, foreign companies like AST SpaceMobile are choosing India as a launch partner reinforcing ISRO’s reputation and generating revenue via its commercial arm, NewSpace India Limited (NSIL).