ISRO BAHUBALI LVM3-M6 Mission Successful, Bluebird Block-2 Mission Highlights| ISRO “Baahubali” Rocket 2025. On December 24, 2025, ISRO successfully executed the LVM3-M6 mission, marking a historic milestone by launching the heaviest satellite ever deployed from Indian soil. This mission was a dedicated commercial launch for the US-based company AST SpaceMobile. This ISRO launch deployed a 6,100-kilogram communication satellite into Low Earth Orbit under a commercial contract between ISRO’s commercial arm NewSpace India Ltd (NSIL) and United States (US) based AST SpaceMobile.
ISRO BAHUBALI LVM3-M6 Mission Key Highlights
- Launch Date & Time: Wednesday, December 24, 2024, at 08:54 AM IST.
- Launch Site: Second Launch Pad (SLP), Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC), Sriharikota.
- The Payload: The BlueBird Block-2 (often referred to as BlueBird 6) satellite.
- Mission Status: Success. The satellite was accurately injected into its intended orbit approximately 15 minutes after liftoff.
The “BlueBird” Satellite Details
The BlueBird Block-2 is not just heavy; it is a massive piece of technology designed to revolutionize mobile connectivity:
- Record-Breaking Weight: At 6,100 kg, it is the heaviest payload ever carried by ISRO’s LVM3.
- Massive Dimensions: It features a colossal 223-square-meter phased array antenna, making it the largest commercial communications satellite ever deployed in Low Earth Orbit (LEO).
- Direct-to-Phone Technology: The satellite is designed to provide 4G and 5G cellular broadband directly to standard, everyday smartphones without requiring any special hardware or modifications to the phone.
- Global Connectivity: It aims to eliminate coverage gaps in remote areas by providing “cell towers in space.”
The Launch Vehicle: LVM3 (The “Baahubali” Rocket)
This was the sixth operational flight of India’s heaviest rocket, the LVM3.
- Configuration: A three-stage vehicle consisting of two S200 solid strap-on motors, a liquid core stage (L110), and the powerful C25 cryogenic upper stage.
- Orbit: The satellite was placed into a 520 km circular orbit with an inclination of 53°.
- Commercial Milestone: The mission was facilitated by NewSpace India Limited (NSIL), ISRO’s commercial arm, under an agreement with AST SpaceMobile.
LVM3-M6 / Bluebird Block-2 Mission
LVM3 is the operational heavy lift Launch Vehicle of ISRO and has a spectacular pedigree of completing eight consecutive successful missions. LVM3-M6 is the Sixth Operational Flight of LVM3 and third dedicated commercial mission to launch the BlueBird Block-2 spacecraft, which is the heaviest payload (~6100 kgs.) into Low Earth Orbit (LEO) in the LVM3 launch history. It will be launched from the Second Launch Pad (SLP), SDSC, SHAR. This mission is being undertaken as part of the commercial agreement between M/s. NSIL and M/s. AST & Science, LLC an US based company.
BlueBird block-2 mission is part of a global LEO constellation to provide direct-to-mobile connectivity through satellite . This constellation will enable 4G and 5G voice and video calls, texts, streaming, and data for everyone, everywhere, at all times. It features a 223m² phased array, making it the largest commercial communications satellite ever deployed into low Earth orbit.
Why This ISRO BAHUBALI LVM3-M6 Mission Matters
- Heavy-Lift Credibility: It proves that India’s LVM3 can compete globally for heavy-lift commercial launches (6+ tonnes), a segment traditionally dominated by SpaceX or Arianespace.
- Technological Leap: It supports the world’s first space-based cellular broadband network.
- Future Missions: Success here reinforces confidence in the LVM3 as it prepares for the Gaganyaan (human spaceflight) missions scheduled to begin uncrewed trials early next year. Download Detailed Brochure Here
