Tue Dec 23 07:17:48 UTC 2025: Summary:

On December 24, 2025, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is scheduled to launch the LVM3-M6 rocket carrying the U.S.-built Bluebird Block-2 communication satellite from Sriharikota. This commercial mission, a collaboration between ISRO’s commercial arm NewSpace India Ltd (NSIL) and AST SpaceMobile, will deploy the heaviest payload yet carried by the LVM3 into Low Earth Orbit (LEO). The Bluebird Block-2 satellite is designed to provide high-speed cellular broadband directly to smartphones worldwide, forming part of a global LEO constellation for 4G and 5G connectivity. ISRO Chairman V. Narayanan offered prayers at the Sri Venkateswara Swamy Temple ahead of the launch.

News Article:

ISRO Set to Launch U.S. Communication Satellite on LVM3-M6 Rocket

Sriharikota, India – December 23, 2025 – The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is gearing up for the launch of its LVM3-M6 rocket carrying the Bluebird Block-2 communication satellite, a collaborative mission with U.S.-based AST SpaceMobile. The launch is scheduled for 8:54 a.m. on December 24, 2025, from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota.

The 6,100 kg Bluebird Block-2 satellite will be the heaviest payload ever launched into Low Earth Orbit (LEO) by the LVM3 rocket. This mission is part of a commercial agreement between NewSpace India Ltd (NSIL), ISRO’s commercial arm, and AST SpaceMobile.

The Bluebird Block-2 is a next-generation communication satellite designed to provide high-speed cellular broadband directly to smartphones globally. AST SpaceMobile aims to build a space-based cellular broadband network accessible directly by smartphones for both commercial and government applications. The satellite features a large phased array, making it the largest commercial communications satellite deployed into low Earth Orbit at about 600km altitude.

ISRO Chairman V. Narayanan visited the Sri Venkateswara Swamy Temple in Tirumala to offer prayers ahead of the crucial launch.

The LVM3, also known as the Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle MkIII, is a three-stage rocket developed by ISRO, utilizing solid rocket boosters for lift-off. The Bluebird Block-2 is expected to separate from the launch vehicle approximately 15 minutes after lift-off.

This launch is significant as it aims to provide 4G and 5G voice and video calls, texts, streaming, and data worldwide, potentially revolutionizing mobile connectivity. AST SpaceMobile has already launched five similar satellites, BlueBird 1-5, in September 2024, and plans to further expand its network in partnership with over 50 mobile operators globally.

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