The LVM3-M6 mission marked an important achievement for India’s space programme and its growing role in global space services. Launched on December 24, 2025, from Sriharikota, the mission used ISRO’s most powerful rocket, the LVM3, to place a very large communication satellite into space. The launch is carried out by the Indian Space Research Organisation, with its commercial arm, NewSpace India Limited, managing the mission for an international customer.
At the centre of the mission was the BlueBird Block-2 satellite, owned by the US-based company AST SpaceMobile. This satellite has a clear goal: to make mobile phone connectivity possible directly from space. Unlike traditional systems that depend heavily on mobile towers and ground networks, this satellite is designed to send and receive signals straight to regular smartphones. This means people could potentially make calls or use mobile data even in remote areas where phone networks do not exist.
One of the most notable aspects of this launch was its scale. The BlueBird Block-2 satellite is the heaviest commercial satellite ever launched into low Earth orbit from India. Weighing over 6,000 kilograms, it tested the full strength of the LVM3 rocket. The successful launch showed that India now has the ability to handle very large and demanding commercial missions.
The LVM3 rocket itself is built to carry heavy loads. It uses multiple stages working together to generate enough power to lift large satellites and place them accurately into orbit. In this mission, the satellite was released into space just minutes after liftoff, showing the rocket’s precision and reliability.
Beyond the technical success, the mission has wider importance. It strengthens India’s reputation as a trusted and capable launch partner for countries and companies around the world. It also highlights India’s entry into the competitive market of commercial satellite launches.
Most importantly, the mission points to a future where mobile connectivity is not limited by geography. By supporting space-based mobile services, the BlueBird Block-2 satellite could help connect rural and underserved regions across the globe. Overall, the LVM3-M6 mission stands as a major step forward for India in space technology, commercial leadership, and global communication access.