NRI PULSE STAFF REPORT
Sriharikota, India, December 25, 2025: The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) on Tuesday successfully launched a U.S. communications satellite, BlueBird Block-2, marking a major commercial milestone for India’s heavy-lift launch vehicle LVM3-M6 and underscoring the country’s growing role in the global space market.
The satellite, built for U.S.-based company AST SpaceMobile, lifted off from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota and was placed into a low-Earth orbit approximately 15 minutes after launch. ISRO officials confirmed that all mission objectives were met and that the satellite separated from the rocket as planned.
BlueBird Block-2 is part of AST SpaceMobile’s next-generation constellation aimed at enabling direct-to-mobile broadband connectivity from space, allowing standard mobile phones to connect without specialized ground equipment. The satellite is among the heaviest commercial payloads launched by ISRO, highlighting the growing capability and reliability of the LVM3, also known as “Baahubali.”
Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed the mission’s success in a social media post, linking it to India’s long-term ambitions in space exploration and commercial launches.
“Powered by India’s youth, our space programme is getting more advanced and impactful,” Modi wrote.
“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.
“This increased capability and boost to self-reliance are wonderful for the coming generations.”
The mission was executed under a commercial arrangement facilitated by NewSpace India Limited, ISRO’s commercial arm, and is seen as a significant step in positioning India as a competitive and cost-effective launch provider for international clients.
Beyond its commercial importance, the successful flight of LVM3-M6 is also closely watched for its relevance to India’s upcoming Gaganyaan human spaceflight program, which will rely on the same launch vehicle family.
ISRO officials said the mission further strengthens India’s credibility in handling complex, heavy-payload launches and opens the door to deeper international collaborations in satellite deployment and space-based communications.
Mission Success
— ISRO (@isro) December 24, 2025
The LVM3-M6 mission has successfully placed the BlueBird Block-2 satellite into its intended orbit.
Youtube Livestreaming link:https://t.co/FMYCs31L3j
For More information Visit:https://t.co/PBYwLU4Ogy
#LVM3M6 #BlueBirdBlock2 #ISRO #NSIL
LVM3-M6 / BlueBird Block-2 Mission | Live Launch | ISRO-NSIL: https://www.youtube.com/live/tNpY3wLE3nE?si=8dzg-JTZIX3RnGoK
