ISRO LVM3-M6 launched : Today, December 24, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) successfully launched the LVM3-M6 mission, which placed the BlueBird Block-2 satellite in orbit. This launch, carried out as a dedicated commercial mission for AST SpaceMobile of the United States, is a watershed moment in satellite communications.
ISRO LVM3-M6 launched : Setting records in Low Earth Orbit (LEO)
The BlueBird Block-2 spacecraft will be the biggest cargo ever sent into Low Earth Orbit by the LVM3 rocket. It is also the largest commercial communications satellite ever launched in LEO, thanks to its gigantic 223-square-meter phased array antenna.
This mission continues the LVM3’s record of high-profile accomplishments, which include Chandrayaan-2, Chandrayaan-3, and two OneWeb missions. Today’s triumph comes shortly after the LVM3-M5/CMS-03 mission, which completed on November 2, 2025.
Direct connectivity to a smartphone.
The BlueBird Block-2 is intended to provide 24/7 high-speed cellular broadband directly to regular smartphones around the world, removing the need for specialized ground hardware. This satellite is part of a global constellation designed to enable:
4G and 5G Voice and Video Calls
High-speed Data Streaming
Text Messaging and Ubiquitous Connectivity
NSIL, ISRO’s commercial arm, facilitated the trip through a deal with AST SpaceMobile.
Reducing the worldwide connection gap
AST SpaceMobile is constructing the world’s first space-based cellular broadband network for commercial and government use. “We are on a mission to eliminate the connectivity gaps faced by today’s nearly six billion mobile subscribers and bring broadband to the billions who remain unconnected,” the organization explained.
Building on the success of the BlueBird 1-5 satellites, which launched in September 2024, the business intends to continue growing its constellation. To far, AST SpaceMobile has collaborated with over 50 cell carriers across the world to provide continuous internet connectivity to the planet’s most remote areas.
