India’s LVM-3 to Launch US BlueBird-6 Satellite on December 24

LVM3-M6 Mission Strengthens India’s Role in Global Space Commerce

India is set to achieve another milestone in commercial spaceflight as its heavy-lift launch vehicle LVM-3 prepares to place a major US commercial satellite into orbit on December 24 . The mission reflects India’s growing stature as a reliable launch service provider for high-mass international satellites and highlights the expanding commercial role of its space ecosystem.

Launch Schedule and Mission Profile

The LVM3-M6 mission will lift off at 8:54 am from the second launch pad at Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota , as confirmed by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). Originally planned for mid-December, the launch was rescheduled following internal readiness assessments. The mission’s objective is to deploy the BlueBird Block-2 satellite (BlueBird-6) into low Earth orbit (LEO) .

Role of NSIL and the LVM-3 Vehicle

The launch is being executed by NewSpace India Limited (NSIL) under a commercial agreement with the US company. While India’s PSLV has long dominated foreign satellite launches, LVM-3 represents India’s entry into the heavy-lift commercial segment. Since its commercial debut in 2022, the vehicle has demonstrated the capability to carry payloads exceeding five tonnes, significantly expanding India’s market reach.

BlueBird-6: Satellite Capabilities

Developed by AST SpaceMobile , the BlueBird-6 satellite weighs about 6,500 kg and is part of a constellation aimed at providing direct-to-smartphone cellular broadband worldwide. Equipped with nearly 2,400 square feet of phased-array antennas , it is among the largest commercial antenna arrays deployed in LEO. The design enables high-speed connectivity without the need for specialised ground equipment.

What to Note for Exams?

• LVM-3 can carry over 8 tonnes to low Earth orbit .

• NSIL is ISRO’s commercial arm for launch services.

• Low Earth orbit ranges roughly from 160 km to 2,000 km .

• Phased-array antennas enable electronic beam steering.

Strategic Significance

By launching a high-value US commercial satellite, India reinforces confidence in LVM-3 as a competitive heavy-lift launcher. The mission underlines India’s evolution into a trusted player in the global space economy.