20.12.2025
India’s LVM3 heavy-lift rocket is set to carry a communications satellite for US-based AST SpaceMobile on 24 December, marking another commercial mission for Isro.
“The launch of LVM3-M6 is scheduled on 24 December 2025 at 08:54 hrs IST from the Second Launch Pad, SDSC SHAR (Satish Dhawan Space Centre), Sriharikota,” Isro said in a post on X.
Officials said the LVM3-M6 mission is a dedicated commercial launch of AST SpaceMobile Inc.’s “BlueBird Block-2” satellite, undertaken under a commercial arrangement with NewSpace India Limited (NSIL), Isro’s commercial arm.
AST SpaceMobile said on its website that the next-generation BlueBird satellites are engineered to provide continuous, high-speed cellular broadband services directly to standard smartphones across the globe.
The company added that the satellites are equipped with antenna arrays spanning nearly 2,400 square feet, making them the largest commercial phased arrays ever deployed in low Earth orbit, exceeding the earlier benchmark set by its first-generation BlueBird satellites, which had arrays of 693 square feet.
Quelle: BW BUSINESSWORLD
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Update: 23.12.2025
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Isro to launch LVM3 with heaviest satellite on Wednesday, countdown begins
The Indian Space Research Organisation prepares to launch one of its heaviest payload to date, marking a significant milestone in commercial satellite deployment and global broadband connectivity.
Isro to launch LVM3 with heaviest US broadband satellite. (Photo: Isro)
The Indian Space Research Organisation (Isro) initiated a 24-hour countdown for the launch of its LVM3-M6 rocket, which will carry a new generation US communication satellite from the second launch pad at Sriharikota.
The mission is scheduled for 8:54 am on Wednesday, marking a notable step in ISRO's commercial ventures. "The 24-hour countdown for the launch of LVM3-M6 rocket, which will carry a new generation US communication satellite commenced here on Tuesday, ISRO said."
This commercial launch will see the LVM3-M6 rocket lift the Bluebird Block-2 spacecraft, weighing 6,100 kg. ISRO has stated, "Weighing 6,100 kg, the communication satellite would be the heaviest payload to be placed into the Low Earth Orbit (LEO) in LVM3 launch history," the Bengaluru-headquartered space agency said.
The previous record was held by the 4,400 kg Communication Satellite 03 launched on November 2.
The mission is being conducted under a commercial agreement between NewSpace India Ltd (NSIL), the commercial arm of ISRO, and US-based AST SpaceMobile. The launch is expected to strengthen India's position in the global commercial satellite market and demonstrates the agency's increasing capability to handle heavy payloads for international clients.
The Bluebird Block-2 satellite plays a crucial role in expanding global connectivity. Designed to provide high-speed cellular broadband directly to smartphones, the satellite aims to offer uninterrupted communication capabilities worldwide, targeting both commercial and government users.
AST SpaceMobile, the client for this mission, has built what it calls the first and only space-based broadband network that is accessible directly by smartphones without ground infrastructure.
The company previously launched five satellites in 2024 and intends to extend its network reach with subsequent launches through collaborations with more than 50 mobile operators.
ISRO's LVM3 rocket, also known as Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle MkIII, stands 43.5 meters tall and incorporates a three-stage system with a cryogenic engine developed by ISRO's Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre.
The rocket also uses two S200 solid rocket boosters, produced by the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre, to provide the necessary thrust for launch.
The Bluebird Block-2 satellite will enter low Earth orbit at an altitude of around 600 km, becoming part of a global constellation designed to enable 4G and 5G voice, video calls, texts, streaming, and data services worldwide.
Quelle: INDIA TODAY
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Update: 24.12.2025
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ISRO’s LVM3 To Launch US Firm AST SpaceMobile Satellite On Dec 24
Quelle: ISRO