ISRO’s LVM3 Successfully Launches BlueBird Block-2, Sets New Commercial Milestones

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) on December 24 successfully launched the BlueBird Block-2 communication satellite aboard the Launch Vehicle Mark 3 (LVM3), marking a significant milestone in India’s commercial spaceflight and heavy-lift launch capability.

The LVM3 lifted off at 8.55 a.m. from the second launch pad at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota, and placed the satellite into its intended low Earth orbit approximately 15 minutes later.

What milestones were achieved with this launch?

ISRO said the mission achieved two major firsts. The BlueBird Block-2 satellite became the largest commercial communications satellite ever deployed into low Earth orbit, and at 6,100 kg, it is the heaviest payload launched by the LVM3 from Indian soil.

ISRO Chairman Dr V. Narayanan said the mission also marked the first dedicated commercial launch by the LVM3 for a customer from the United States.

“LVM3 Bahubali rocket M6 launch vehicle has successfully and precisely injected the BlueBird Block-2 communication satellite in the intended orbit,” he said, adding that it was the heaviest satellite ever lifted from Indian soil using an Indian launcher.

How did ISRO assess the mission’s performance?

Dr Narayanan said the achieved orbital accuracy was within two kilometres, describing it as one of the best performances by any launch vehicle globally. He added that with this mission, India has now launched 434 satellites for 34 countries.

According to ISRO, the LVM3-M6 mission was the 104th launch from Sriharikota, the ninth successful mission of the LVM3 launch vehicle, and the third dedicated commercial mission, demonstrating a 100% success record so far.

What is the BlueBird Block-2 satellite?

The BlueBird Block-2 communication satellite has been developed by AST SpaceMobile, United States, and is part of a next-generation constellation designed to provide space-based cellular broadband connectivity directly to standard mobile smartphones.

ISRO said the BlueBird Block-2 satellites are intended to enable 4G and 5G voice and video calls, messaging, streaming, and data services globally. The satellite features a 223-square-metre phased array, making it the largest commercial communications satellite deployed in low Earth orbit.

What did the Prime Minister say about the mission?

Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated ISRO on the successful launch, highlighting the growing capabilities of India’s space programme.

“Powered by India’s youth, our space programme is getting more advanced and impactful,” he said in a post on X. He added that the LVM3’s reliable heavy-lift performance would strengthen future missions such as Gaganyaan, expand commercial launch services, and deepen global partnerships.

Why is this launch significant for LVM3 operations?

Dr Narayanan noted that the mission also marked the first time the LVM3 conducted back-to-back launches within a span of 52 days. The previous LVM3 mission was carried out on November 2.

“This was not an easy task considering the enormous coordination required across various ISRO centres,” he said, describing the achievement as aligned with the Prime Minister’s vision for India’s space programme.

The successful deployment of BlueBird Block-2 reinforces ISRO’s growing role in the global commercial launch market while demonstrating the LVM3’s readiness for both strategic national missions and international customers.