ISRO Launches Heaviest-Ever LVM3 Payload for US Firm

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) on Wednesday achieved a major milestone in its commercial space programme by successfully launching the BlueBird Block-2 spacecraft for US-based AST SpaceMobile.

The satellite lifted off at 8:55 am aboard ISRO’s heavy-lift LVM3-M6 rocket from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre. Shortly after launch, ISRO confirmed that the spacecraft was accurately placed into its intended Low Earth Orbit (LEO).

Weighing 6,100 kg, BlueBird Block-2 is the heaviest payload ever launched by ISRO’s LVM3 rocket, setting a new benchmark for the agency’s launch capabilities and strengthening India’s position in the global commercial launch market.

A Key Boost to ISRO’s Commercial Push

The mission was executed under a commercial agreement between ISRO’s commercial arm NewSpace India Limited (NSIL) and AST SpaceMobile. The successful launch highlights growing international confidence in India’s heavy-lift launch systems.

Until now, the record for ISRO’s heaviest LVM3 payload was held by Communication Satellite-03, which weighed around 4,400 kg and was launched in November last year. The BlueBird Block-2 mission comfortably surpasses that mark.

Satellite Aims to Enable Direct Smartphone Connectivity

AST SpaceMobile is developing the world’s first space-based cellular broadband network designed to connect directly to standard smartphones, without the need for specialised satellite equipment.

Once operational, the BlueBird Block-2 satellite will support 4G and 5G voice calls, video calls, messaging, streaming, and data services across remote and underserved regions. The network is intended for both commercial and government use, expanding global mobile coverage.

PM Modi, Union Minister Congratulate ISRO

Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised the mission, calling it a proud moment for India’s space sector.

In a post on X, he said the successful launch reflects India’s progress towards Aatmanirbhar Bharat, adding that Indian scientists and engineers continue to raise the country’s global standing in space technology.

Union Minister of State for Science and Technology Jitendra Singh also congratulated the ISRO team, saying the agency is achieving “one success after another” under strong leadership and vision.

About ISRO’s LVM3 Rocket

The LVM3, also known as GSLV Mk-III, is a 43.5-metre-tall, three-stage launch vehicle developed to carry heavy satellites and human spaceflight missions.

It is powered by a cryogenic upper stage developed by ISRO’s Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre and equipped with two S200 solid rocket boosters, built by the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre, to provide the massive thrust required at liftoff.

The rocket has previously carried landmark missions such as Chandrayaan-2, Chandrayaan-3, and multiple OneWeb satellite launches, further proving its reliability.

A Defining Moment for India’s Space Industry

The successful BlueBird Block-2 launch not only demonstrates ISRO’s growing technical capabilities but also signals India’s emergence as a trusted partner in the global commercial space ecosystem. With heavier payload capacity and proven reliability, the LVM3 is expected to attract more international customers in the coming years.