Sriharikota: India’s space agency Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) achieved another milestone with the successful launch of the latest American communication satellite, ‘Bluebird Block-2,’ using its heaviest rocket, the LVM3-M6. The launch took place from the second launch pad at Sriharikota’s spaceport at 8:54 AM.
Key Highlights of the Launch:
- High-speed connectivity: The Bluebird Block-2 satellite is designed to provide high-speed cellular broadband services directly to smartphones globally.
- Heaviest LVM3 Rocket: This is the first time the LVM3 rocket has carried a payload weighing 6,100 kg to space, marking a significant achievement in ISRO’s payload capacity.
- Rocket Specifications: The LVM3 rocket has an impressive height of 43.5 meters.
- Commercial Satellite Launch: The satellite will be placed at an altitude of 600 km above Earth, making this a vital commercial satellite mission.
- Separation after 15 minutes: The Bluebird Block-2 satellite will separate from the launch vehicle 15 minutes after liftoff.
- Private Collaboration: The mission is part of a private agreement between NewSpace India Ltd (NSIL), a subsidiary of ISRO, and the American company AST SpaceMobile (AST and Science LLC).
- Rocket Development: The rocket’s design and development were managed by ISRO’s Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre (LPSC).
- Space-based Cellular Network: AST SpaceMobile is constructing the world’s first space-based cellular broadband network, which will be used directly by smartphones. It will offer 4G/5G voice, video calls, text, streaming, and data services globally.
- Enhanced Connectivity: This satellite aims to provide enhanced connectivity in areas where traditional cellular towers have limited reach, offering uninterrupted communication services.
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This successful launch strengthens ISRO’s capabilities in commercial satellite launches and reinforces its role in advanced satellite technology for global connectivity.
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