ISRO Shakes the Skies: LVM3-M6 Successfully Orbits Record-Breaking BlueBird Block-2

December 24, 2025 — In a spectacular display of precision and power, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) successfully launched its heaviest rocket, the LVM3-M6, today. The mission safely delivered the BlueBird Block-2 satellite into its intended orbit, marking a historic milestone in international commercial space cooperation and the future of global telecommunications.

A Flawless Liftoff

At precisely 8:55 AM IST, the 43.5-meter-tall LVM3 rocket, often affectionately called “Bahubali” for its massive lifting power, roared to life at the Second Launch Pad of the Satish Dhawan Space Centre. After a smooth 15-minute ascent, the rocket’s cryogenic upper stage precisely injected the 6,100 kg satellite into a 520 km circular Low Earth Orbit (LEO).

ISRO Chairman V. Narayanan confirmed the mission’s success, stating, “The launch vehicle has precisely injected the BlueBird Block-2 into the intended orbit. This is the heaviest satellite ever lifted from Indian soil using an Indian launcher.”

Breaking Records in Space

The LVM3-M6 mission is not just another successful launch; it is a record-setter for the Indian space agency:

• Heaviest Payload: At 6.1 tonnes, this is the heaviest commercial satellite ISRO has ever launched, surpassing the previous record held by the CMS-03 mission.
• Largest Antenna in Orbit: The BlueBird Block-2 features a massive 223-square-meter phased-array antenna, the largest ever deployed on a commercial communications satellite in LEO.
• Commercial Milestone: This was the first dedicated commercial launch for a U.S.-based client, AST SpaceMobile, facilitated by NewSpace India Limited (NSIL).

What is BlueBird Block-2?

Built by AST SpaceMobile, the BlueBird Block-2 is designed to revolutionize how we use our phones. Unlike traditional satellite phones that require specialized hardware, this satellite acts like a “cell tower in space.”

Key Features and Goals:

• Direct-to-Smartphone: Provides 4G and 5G connectivity directly to standard, unmodified smartphones.
• Global Coverage: Aims to eliminate “dead zones” in remote areas where traditional cell towers cannot reach.
• High-Speed Services: Supports voice calls, video streaming, messaging, and broadband data from anywhere on Earth.

Strengthening Indo-US Ties

Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated the ISRO team, calling the launch a “significant stride” for India’s space sector. The success of LVM3-M6 reinforces India’s position as a reliable and cost-effective provider of heavy-lift launch services in the global market.

Coming just 52 days after the previous LVM3 mission, this launch demonstrates ISRO’s increasing capacity for “back-to-back” heavy-lift missions, a crucial capability as the agency prepares for the upcoming Gaganyaan human spaceflight program.