India marked a historic achievement on December 24, 2025, as the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) successfully launched its most powerful rocket, the LVM3, popularly known as the “Bahubali” rocket. The mission delivered the BlueBird Block-2 satellite, built by U.S.-based AST SpaceMobile, into low Earth orbit, setting a record for the heaviest payload ever carried by an Indian rocket.
Historic Launch from Sriharikota
The launch took place at 8:54 AM from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota. The LVM3 rocket carried the 6,100-kilogram BlueBird Block-2 satellite, marking the heaviest payload to lift off from Indian soil. Approximately 15 minutes after liftoff, the satellite was successfully deployed into low Earth orbit, with all rocket phases performing flawlessly.
Strategic Commercial Collaboration
The mission was part of a business deal between NewSpace India Limited (NSIL) and AST SpaceMobile. BlueBird Block-2 is designed to support the next generation of mobile networks, offering 4G and 5G connectivity to regular phones without requiring towers or special antennas.
This technology is expected to connect remote areas, including mountains, deserts, and oceans, and provide critical communication during natural disasters when ground networks fail. The satellite aims to bring billions of people across the globe closer through reliable mobile connectivity.
India’s Largest Launch Vehicle in Action
The LVM3, India’s largest launch vehicle, was being used for the sixth time. Its successful deployment of such a heavy payload demonstrates ISRO’s growing capability to handle large commercial missions, signaling India’s rise in the global space sector.
National Pride and Recognition
Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated the ISRO team on X, describing the launch as a “proud moment” for India’s space programme. The achievement highlights India’s technological advancements and strengthens its position in the international commercial space market.
This historic launch not only showcases India’s growing space capabilities but also strengthens its collaboration with global partners, setting the stage for more ambitious space missions in the coming years.