The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is set to launch a high-capacity communications satellite for US-based company AST SpaceMobile on Tuesday, marking another major milestone in India’s growing commercial space capabilities.

Launch Details and Mission Profile

The satellite will be launched from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre at Sriharikota on December 24 at 8:54 am (IST) aboard the LVM3-M6 mission. The launch is being undertaken as a fully commercial mission by NewSpace India Limited (NSIL), ISRO’s commercial arm.

This mission will be the ninth flight of the heavy-lift LVM3 launch vehicle, popularly known as Bahubali for its high payload capacity. It will also mark ISRO’s 101st launch and the fifth launch in the current calendar year.

About the Satellite: BlueBird Block-2

The satellite, named BlueBird Block-2, has a mass of approximately 6,500 kilograms, making it one of the heaviest commercial payloads launched by ISRO. It features a 223-square-metre phased-array antenna, the largest commercial antenna ever deployed in low-Earth orbit.

Developed by AST SpaceMobile, the satellite is designed to enable direct-to-smartphone connectivity without the need for specialised hardware.

Aiming to Bridge the Connectivity Gap

BlueBird Block-2 aims to provide mobile broadband services directly to standard smartphones, even in areas without traditional cellular infrastructure. This includes remote deserts, oceans, and mountainous regions.

Users will be able to make voice and text calls and stream video content at download speeds of up to 120 Mbps, potentially transforming access to communication services worldwide. The system is expected to help connect nearly two billion people who currently lack reliable network coverage.

Expansion of AST SpaceMobile’s Constellation

As of September 2024, AST SpaceMobile has already placed five smaller BlueBird satellites into orbit. The addition of BlueBird Block-2 is expected to significantly enhance the company’s service capability.

The service will initially be rolled out in the United States, with plans for gradual international expansion in partnership with global telecom operators.

Transforming Global Connectivity

Once fully operational, the project has the potential to redefine mobile connectivity, especially in regions that are geographically isolated or economically underserved. The mission also underscores India’s rising stature as a reliable and cost-effective launch partner in the global commercial space market.

With this launch, ISRO continues to strengthen its role not just as a scientific institution, but as a key player in the international space economy.