Wed Dec 24 03:40:00 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a news article based on the provided text:
ISRO Launches AST SpaceMobile’s “BlueBird” Satellite, Aiming for Global Mobile Connectivity
Sriharikota, India – The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) successfully launched the “BlueBird Block-2” communication satellite for U.S.-based AST SpaceMobile on Wednesday at 8:55 AM. The launch, conducted via ISRO’s most powerful rocket, the LVM3 (Launch Vehicle Mark-3), marks the sixth operational flight (LVM3-M6) of the vehicle.
This mission is the result of an agreement between NewSpace India Limited (NSIL) and AST SpaceMobile. The primary goal is to deploy the world’s largest commercial communications satellite into Low Earth Orbit (LEO), designed to provide high-speed internet directly to standard smartphones from space.
The “BlueBird Block-2” is part of AST SpaceMobile’s next-generation satellite series aimed at delivering mobile connectivity to areas around the world currently lacking terrestrial network access. The satellite is intended to be placed in LEO, approximately 600 kilometers above Earth.
LVM3, previously known as GSLV Mk-III, is a fully indigenously developed rocket and represents a cornerstone of India’s space capabilities. It is also slated for use in future “Gaganyaan” manned missions.
The successful launch is a significant milestone for ISRO’s commercial launch services, strengthening its position in the global space market. AST SpaceMobile aims to create the world’s first space-based cellular broadband network, posing a future challenge to services like Starlink. The launch from India reinforces ISRO’s global launch services.
First Piper 