ISRO’s LVM3-M6 to Launch BlueBird Block-2 Satellite on December 24

India’s Heavy-Lift Rocket to Deploy World’s Largest LEO Communication Satellite

India is set to achieve another milestone in global space commerce as ISRO’s heavy-lift launch vehicle LVM3 prepares to launch a next-generation communication satellite on December 24, 2025 . The LVM3-M6 mission , scheduled at 08:54 hrs IST from the Second Launch Pad at SDSC SHAR , will deploy the BlueBird Block-2 satellite into Low Earth Orbit under a commercial agreement with US-based AST SpaceMobile .

Mission Overview and Launch Details

The mission marks a dedicated commercial launch executed by NewSpace India Limited (NSIL) , ISRO’s commercial arm. It underscores India’s growing credibility as a launch provider for high-mass, advanced foreign satellites. The BlueBird Block-2 spacecraft will be the heaviest payload ever launched to Low Earth Orbit by LVM3 , further validating the rocket’s enhanced lift capability.

About AST SpaceMobile and BlueBird Block-2

AST SpaceMobile is developing the world’s first space-based cellular broadband network that connects directly to standard smartphones without specialised ground hardware . The company has already deployed BlueBird-1 to BlueBird-5 satellites in September 2024 , enabling initial coverage across parts of the US and select regions.

The upcoming BlueBird Block-2 satellite is designed to provide 24/7 high-speed 4G and 5G connectivity , including voice calls, video, messaging, streaming, and data services worldwide. Featuring a massive 223 square metre phased-array antenna , it is the largest commercial communication satellite ever placed in Low Earth Orbit .

Strategic Significance for ISRO

The mission builds on LVM3’s proven track record, which includes launching Chandrayaan-2, Chandrayaan-3 , and two OneWeb missions carrying 72 satellites , as well as the CMS-03 mission in November 2025 . The BlueBird launch highlights India’s transition from national missions to high-value global commercial launches.

What to Note for Exams?

• LVM3-M6 will launch on December 24, 2025 , from SDSC SHAR .

• NSIL is ISRO’s commercial launch arm.

• BlueBird Block-2 supports direct-to-smartphone 4G/5G connectivity.

• It is the heaviest LEO payload launched by LVM3 .