ISRO’s big success: Bluebird Block-2 satellite successfully launched, world’s largest commercial communication satellite creates history

Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) has once again achieved a proud achievement. The LVM3-M6 rocket from the Satish Dhawan Space Center in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh successfully placed the Bluebird Block-2 satellite of the American company AST Spacemobile in the space orbit. This commercial mission was completed today at around 8:55 am, the countdown for which was going on since Tuesday.

Unique Features of Bluebird Block-2

This 6,100 kg satellite is the heaviest payload ever sent into Low Earth Orbit (LEO) by an LVM3 rocket. Earlier this record was of CMS-03 satellite (about 4,400 kg), which was launched on 2 November 2025.

The satellite is designed to provide high-speed cellular broadband connectivity directly to ordinary smartphones without any additional hardware. It has a massive 223 square meter phased-array antenna, making it the largest commercial communications satellite deployed in LEO.

This technology will enable 4G/5G voice and video calls, messaging, streaming and high-speed data services to be available in any corner of the world – be it jungle, sea or remote areas. This mission is part of the agreement between New Space India Limited (NSIL) and AST Spacemobile.

LVM3 rocket power

This 43.5 meter high three-stage rocket is equipped with a cryogenic engine, which was developed by ISRO’s Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre. Two S200 solid boosters have been installed for liftoff, which are the gift of Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre.

AST Spacemobile launched its first five Bluebird satellites in September 2024, providing continuous coverage over the US and some other countries. The company has partnered with more than 50 mobile operators to strengthen the global network.

This successful launch has taken ISRO’s commercial launch capability to new heights and strengthened India’s role in global digital connectivity.