LVM3 Rocket to Carry AST SpaceMobile’s BlueBird Satellite
BlueBird satellite designed for direct-to-cellphone connectivity
News Desk: The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) will cap the year with a high-profile commercial mission as its heavy-lift launcher LVM3-M6 lifts off on December 24 at 08:54 IST from the Second Launch Pad at Sriharikota.
The mission is a dedicated commercial launch for US-based satellite communications company AST SpaceMobile, carrying its BlueBird Block-2 satellite, a next-generation platform aimed at delivering direct-to-cellphone broadband connectivity from space.
The launch is being executed through NewSpace India Limited (NSIL), ISRO’s commercial arm, reinforcing India’s expanding footprint in the global launch services market.
🚀 LVM3-M6 Mission Launch Scheduled
The launch of LVM3-M6 is scheduled on 24 December 2025 at 08:54 hrs IST from the Second Launch Pad (SLP), SDSC SHAR, Sriharikota.
👀 The public can witness the launch from the Launch View Gallery, SDSC SHAR by registering online:
👉… pic.twitter.com/DXJ9JsFAhM— ISRO (@isro) December 19, 2025
The LVM3 is ISRO’s most powerful rocket and its backbone for heavy commercial and strategic missions. From placing large satellites into geostationary transfer orbit to undertaking dedicated international contracts, the vehicle has steadily built a reputation for reliability. The LVM3-M6 flight marks another key commercial milestone for ISRO as it closes 2025 with an international payload.
AST SpaceMobile’s BlueBird satellite series is designed to eliminate coverage gaps by enabling space-based mobile connectivity directly to standard smartphones, without the need for special terminals. Launching the Block-2 satellite from India adds to the growing list of foreign customers choosing ISRO-NSIL for critical missions.
ISRO has confirmed the launch date and time through its official channels. Livestream details and public viewing information are expected to be released shortly via ISRO announcements and partner platforms.
Why this launch matters
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Global commercial push: The mission highlights India’s rise as a trusted commercial launch provider for large international clients.
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Proven heavy-lift capability: Each successful LVM3 mission strengthens confidence in India’s medium-to-heavy launch ecosystem, vital for both revenue generation and national space ambitions.
ISRO is expected to publish the full mission sequence and live telecast link closer to launch. This story will be updated as more details emerge.
