Sriharikota (Andhra Pradesh), December 24

In a historic Christmas Eve mission, ISRO’s LVM3 rocket—popularly known as “Bahubali”—successfully launched a 6,100-kg US communication satellite into its designated orbit on Wednesday. The launch marked a major milestone, as it was the heaviest satellite ever deployed by an Indian launcher, a feat the space agency described as a festive gift to the nation.

The BlueBird Block-2 satellite is part of a global Low Earth Orbit (LEO) constellation designed to provide direct-to-mobile connectivity. The mission aims to enable 4G and 5G voice and video calls, messaging, streaming, and data services worldwide, ensuring seamless connectivity anytime, anywhere.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated ISRO for its latest feat.

“A significant stride in India’s space sector. The successful LVM3-M6 launch, placing the heaviest satellite ever launched from Indian soil, the spacecraft of USA, BlueBird Block-2, into its intended orbit, marks a proud milestone in India’s space journey,” he said in a post on X

ISRO said the LVM3-M6, nicknamed ‘Bahubali’ for its heavylift capability, injected the satellite into its intended orbit in a textbook launch.

LVM3-M6 carried the communication satellite as part of a commercial deal between NewSpace India Ltd (NSIL) and US-based AST SpaceMobile (AST and Science, LLC).

NewSpace India is the commercial arm of the ISRO.

On Wednesday, the 43.5 metre tall rocket soared majestically at 8.55 am from the second launch pad here at the end of a 24 hour countdown.

After a flight journey of about 15 minutes, the spacecraft got separated from the launch vehicle and it was successfully placed into the orbit, bringing all-round cheers in the Mission Control Centre here.

On the successful launch, ISRO Chairman V Narayanan said, “I am extremely happy to say that the LVM3M6 Bahubali rocket has successfully placed the Bluebird Block-2 satellite into the intended orbit. Let me congratulate NewSpace India and AST Space Mobile on the outstanding achievement.”

The satellite was placed in a 518 km circular orbit against the planned 520 km altitude, he said, describing it as a “textbook launch”. AGENCIES INPUT