BlueBird Block-2 mission: ISRO launches heaviest commercial satellite into low Earth orbit

The Indian Space Research Organisation (Isro) on Wednesday morning successfully launched the BlueBird Block-2 communications satellite into low Earth orbit using its heavy-lift Launch Vehicle Mark 3, marking a major milestone for India’s commercial space programme.

The LVM3-M6 mission lifted off at 8.55 a.m. from the second launch pad at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota. About 15 minutes later, the rocket precisely injected the satellite into its intended orbit, according to Isro.

With this mission, Isro achieved two significant firsts. BlueBird Block-2 is the largest commercial communications satellite ever deployed in low Earth orbit, and at 6,100 kg, it is the heaviest payload launched by the LVM3 from Indian soil.

First dedicated commercial LVM3 launch for a US customer

Isro Chairman V Narayanan said the mission demonstrated exceptional accuracy and reliability.

“LVM 3 Bahubali rocket M6 launch vehicle has successfully and precisely injected the BlueBird Block-2 communication satellite in the intended orbit. This is the first dedicated commercial launch for a customer from the USA,” Narayanan said.

He added that the achieved orbit was within a deviation of less than 2 km, calling it one of the best performances by any launch vehicle globally. The mission also marked the heaviest satellite ever lifted from Indian soil using an Indian launcher, he said.

With this launch, India has now placed 434 satellites belonging to 34 countries into orbit.

Satellite designed for direct-to-mobile connectivity

The BlueBird Block-2 satellite has been developed by AST SpaceMobile, USA, and is part of a next-generation low Earth orbit constellation aimed at providing direct-to-mobile satellite connectivity.

According to Isro, the constellation is designed to enable 4G and 5G voice and video calls, messaging, streaming and data services directly on standard mobile smartphones, without the need for specialised ground equipment.

The satellite features a 223 m² phased array antenna, making it the largest commercial communications satellite deployed in low Earth orbit to date.

Boost to commercial launches, Gaganyaan readiness

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in a post on X, said the mission underlined India’s growing technological capability and self-reliance in space.

“Powered by India’s youth, our space programme is getting more advanced and impactful. With LVM3 demonstrating reliable heavy-lift performance, we are strengthening the foundations for future missions such as Gaganyaan, expanding commercial launch services and deepening global partnerships,” he said.

Narayanan noted that the LVM3-M6 mission was the 104th launch from Sriharikota, the ninth successful flight of the LVM3, and the third dedicated commercial mission of the vehicle, maintaining a 100 per cent success record.

He also highlighted the rapid turnaround between missions. “This is the first time we have a back-to-back LVM3 mission within just 52 days,” he said, referring to the previous LVM3 launch on November 2. “It required enormous effort and close coordination across multiple Isro centres.”

The successful deployment of BlueBird Block-2 further strengthens India’s position in the global commercial launch market, particularly for heavy payloads destined for low Earth orbit.