The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is set to mark a significant milestone in commercial space ventures with its upcoming LVM3 M6 mission. Scheduled for December 24, the launch will carry the next-generation BlueBird Block-2 communication satellite for US-based firm AST SpaceMobile. This mission represents a pivotal step towards creating a space-based cellular broadband network accessible directly by standard smartphones worldwide.
A Giant Leap for Global Connectivity
AST SpaceMobile is on a mission to eliminate connectivity gaps for nearly six billion mobile subscribers and extend broadband to billions more who remain unconnected. The BlueBird Block-2 is a cornerstone of this vision. Unlike traditional satellite internet requiring specialized hardware, this network is designed to work with everyday smartphones, promising to deliver 4G and 5G voice and video calls, texting, streaming, and data access from virtually any location on Earth.
The company has already launched its first five satellites (BlueBird 1-5) in September 2024, establishing initial coverage in the United States and select nations. With over 50 partnerships with mobile operators globally, the launch of the advanced Block-2 satellite is a crucial expansion of this ambitious constellation in Low Earth Orbit (LEO).
Technical Marvel: The BlueBird Block-2 Satellite
The BlueBird Block-2 is an engineering marvel, set to become the largest commercial communication satellite ever deployed in Low Earth Orbit. Its defining feature is a colossal 223 square meter phased array antenna, which enables it to communicate directly with cellular devices on the ground. Furthermore, this spacecraft will be the heaviest payload that ISRO's reliable LVM3 rocket has ever lofted into LEO.
This mission is a dedicated commercial launch executed under an agreement between NewSpace India Ltd (NSIL)—ISRO's commercial arm—and AST SpaceMobile. It underscores India's growing prowess and reliability in the global commercial satellite launch market.
ISRO's Proven Workhorse: The LVM3 Rocket
The Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle Mark III (LVM3) is ISRO's most powerful launch vehicle, with a proven track record of success. It has been the backbone of India's most prestigious missions, including the Chandrayaan-2 and Chandrayaan-3 lunar expeditions. The rocket has also proven its commercial mettle by successfully launching two batches of satellites for the OneWeb constellation, totaling 72 satellites.
Its most recent success was the LVM3-M5/CMS-03 mission on November 2, 2025, which deployed a communication satellite. The upcoming December 24 flight continues this legacy, highlighting the vehicle's versatility and reliability for both national scientific projects and international commercial customers.
The launch of the BlueBird Block-2 is more than just another satellite deployment; it is a concrete step toward a future where seamless, global cellular coverage from space becomes a reality, potentially transforming digital inclusion on a planetary scale.
