File photo (Picture credit: PTI)
NEW DELHI: Isro’s upcoming LVM3-M6 mission will place the BlueBird Block-2 satellite into orbit on December 24 as part of a commercial agreement with US-based AST SpaceMobile. The mission marks a significant step in global efforts to deliver high-speed mobile connectivity directly to smartphones using satellite technology.The BlueBird Block-2 satellite is a next-generation communications spacecraft designed to provide round-the-clock cellular broadband coverage across the world. AST SpaceMobile, formally known as AST & Science, LLC, is working to build what it describes as the first space-based cellular broadband network that can be accessed directly by standard smartphones, without the need for special devices. “We are on a mission to eliminate the connectivity gaps faced by today’s nearly six billion mobile subscribers and bring broadband to the billions who remain unconnected,” the company said on its website.AST SpaceMobile has already launched five satellites — BlueBird 1 to 5 — in September 2024, enabling continuous internet coverage across the United States and some other regions. The company plans to expand this network further and has partnered with more than 50 mobile operators worldwide.As per Isro, the LVM3-M6 mission will be a dedicated commercial launch under an agreement signed between NewSpace India Limited and AST SpaceMobile. NewSpace India Limited is the commercial arm of Isro.The BlueBird Block-2 satellite will be part of a Low Earth Orbit constellation aimed at enabling direct-to-mobile connectivity. According to news agency PTI, Isro said the network would support 4G and 5G voice and video calls, text messaging, streaming and data services for users anywhere, at any time.The satellite features a massive 223 square metre phased array, making it the largest commercial communications satellite ever deployed in low Earth orbit. It will also be the heaviest payload launched into LEO by Isro’s LVM3 rocket.The LVM3 has previously launched major missions, including Chandrayaan-2, Chandrayaan-3 and two OneWeb missions carrying 72 satellites. Isro’s most recent LVM3 launch was the LVM3-M5/CMS-03 mission, which successfully placed a communication satellite into orbit on November 2, 2025.
