Is ISRO Set to Launch the BlueBird Block-2 Satellite on December 24?
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Synopsis
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is gearing up for the launch of the BlueBird Block-2 satellite on December 24. This mission, utilizing the powerful LVM3 rocket, is significant for both ISRO and AST SpaceMobile as it marks a major advancement in satellite communications. Discover what this launch means for global connectivity and collaboration!
Key Takeaways
- ISRO prepares to launch BlueBird Block-2 on December 24.
- Launch will occur from Satish Dhawan Space Center.
- Satellite weighs 6.5 tonnes and is among the heaviest commercial satellites.
- Utilizes the powerful LVM3 rocket, designed for heavy payloads.
- Significant advancements in global telecommunications anticipated.
New Delhi, Dec 22 (NationPress) The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) announced on Monday that it is fully prepared to launch the BlueBird Block-2 satellite on December 24.
This launch will occur from the Satish Dhawan Space Center and aims to position the BlueBird Block-2 satellite, also known as BlueBird-6, into Low Earth Orbit.
Developed by AST SpaceMobile, a US-based company, this communications satellite will be deployed using India’s most formidable rocket, LVM3.
Weighing an impressive 6.5 tonnes, the BlueBird satellite is regarded as one of the heaviest commercial satellites. It arrived in India from the US on October 19.
“Meet #LVM3M6, ISRO’s operational heavy-lift launch vehicle boasting a strong track record of successful missions. It is ready to deliver BlueBird Block-2 to Low Earth Orbit,” ISRO stated in a post on the social media platform X.
AST SpaceMobile has previously indicated that “upon launch, it will showcase the largest commercial phased array in low Earth orbit, measuring nearly 2,400 square feet. This represents a 3.5 times increase in size compared to BlueBirds 1-5, enabling a 10 times enhancement in data capacity.”
This marks the second collaboration between the US and ISRO. In July, ISRO successfully launched the $1.5 billion NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar Mission (NISAR), designed for high-resolution Earth scans capable of penetrating fog, dense clouds, and ice layers.
AST SpaceMobile has already deployed five satellites—BlueBirds 1 to 5—in September 2024 and aims to further expand this network by partnering with over 50 mobile operators globally.
For the launch of BlueBird 6, ISRO's commercial wing, New Space India Limited (NSIL), is overseeing the operations.
The LVM3, developed by ISRO, is a three-stage launch vehicle that includes two solid strap-on motors (S200), a liquid core stage (L110), and a cryogenic upper stage (C25).
With a lift-off mass of 640 tonnes, a height of 43.5 m, and a payload capacity of 4,200 kg to Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO), ISRO emphasized its capabilities.
Recently, the LVM-3 successfully placed India’s heaviest CMS-3 satellite, weighing 4.4 tonnes, into orbit on November 2.
In earlier missions, LVM3 has successfully launched Chandrayaan-2, Chandrayaan-3, and two OneWeb missions carrying a total of 72 satellites.
Point of View
I firmly believe in the significance of this launch, not only for ISRO but for global telecommunications. The collaboration between the US and India exemplifies the power of international partnerships in advancing technology. With ISRO leading the charge, we can expect groundbreaking developments that enhance connectivity worldwide, reaffirming India's position in the space arena.
NationPress
23/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the launch date of the BlueBird Block-2 satellite?
The BlueBird Block-2 satellite is scheduled for launch on December 24.
Who developed the BlueBird Block-2 satellite?
The BlueBird Block-2 satellite was developed by AST SpaceMobile, a US-based company.
What is the weight of the BlueBird Block-2 satellite?
The BlueBird Block-2 satellite weighs approximately 6.5 tonnes.
What rocket will be used for the launch?
The BlueBird Block-2 satellite will be launched aboard India's LVM3 rocket.
How does the BlueBird Block-2 satellite enhance data capacity?
The BlueBird Block-2 satellite features a phased array that is 3.5 times larger than its predecessors, allowing for a tenfold increase in data capacity.
