The Indian Space Research Organisation has successfully launched the BlueBird Block-2 satellite aboard its heaviest launch vehicle, LVM3-M6, marking a major milestone in India’s commercial space capabilities.
Weighing 6,100 kilograms, BlueBird Block-2, developed by US-based AST SpaceMobile, is the heaviest satellite ever deployed from India and is designed to provide direct 4G and 5G connectivity to standard smartphones.
It was placed into low Earth orbit at an altitude of 520 kilometres, around 15 minutes after lift-off.
The 43.5-metre LVM3 rocket worked perfectly, with cameras showing important moments such as the boosters separating and the rocket’s outer cover being released.
This marks the sixth successful flight of the LVM3, also known as Bahubali for its heavy-lift capability.
ISRO Chairman Dr V. Narayanan described the mission as a season’s gift for India, highlighting its significance in strengthening the country’s presence in the global commercial launch market.
The rocket has previously launched Chandrayaan-2, Chandrayaan-3 and 72 OneWeb satellites, and a modified version will be used for the upcoming Gaganyaan crewed mission.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised the launch as a significant stride for India’s space programme.
With an unmanned lunar mission and the country’s first human spaceflight planned by 2027, India continues to expand its capabilities in space exploration and commercial satellite operations.
Source: India News Network
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