Bluebird 6 Satellite

Bluebird 6 Satellite Latest News

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is scheduled to launch the US-based commercial BlueBird-6 satellite developed by US-based AST Spacemobile on 21st December 2025 using ISRO’s LVM-3 rocket.

About Bluebird 6 Satellite

• Purpose: Designed to provide direct-to-device internet connectivity, enabling mobile phones to access broadband without relying on traditional cell towers.
• Origin: Developed by the US-based commercial company AST SpaceMobile for global mobile coverage.
• Weight and Size: Weighs around 6.5 tonnes, making it one of the heaviest satellites launched by ISRO.
• Orbit Type: Will operate in low-Earth orbit (LEO) to cover large regions of the Earth efficiently.
• Technology: Features one of the largest phased array antennas ever flown, which covers nearly 2,400 square feet, allowing it to communicate directly with standard mobile phones.
• Significance: It enhances global mobile broadband connectivity, especially in remote and rural areas.
• Collaboration: Represents a significant step in Indo-US space cooperation and commercial space ventures.
• Future Impact: Expected to help bridge the digital divide, providing internet access to regions without cellular infrastructure.

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About LVM-3

• LVM-3, also known as GSLV Mk III or “Bahubali”, is a heavy-lift launch vehicle developed by ISRO.
• It is designed to carry large satellites into space and support human spaceflight missions.
• The rocket is approximately 43.43 meters tall and has a lift-off mass of around 640 tonnes, making it India’s heaviest launch vehicle.
• It can carry up to 4 tonnes to Geostationary Transfer Orbit (GTO) and 10 tonnes to Low Earth Orbit (LEO).
• It is a three-stage rocket: two solid rocket boosters (S200), a liquid core stage (L110), and a cryogenic upper stage (C25).
• It has been used for heavier communication satellites, interplanetary missions, and India’s Gaganyaan human spaceflight project.
• Its first successful experimental flight was in December 2014, and it is known for its reliability and heavy payload capability.

Source: ToI