नवीनतम
ISRO successfully launches BlueBird Block-2 datellite
NEW DELHI [Maha Media]: In a significant milestone in space science, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) successfully launched the BlueBird Block-2 (also known as BlueBird-6) communication satellite on Wednesday from the second launch pad of the Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC), Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh.
As the 24-hour countdown concluded, the 43.5 metre tall rocket supported by two S200 solid boosters lifted off majestically at 8:55 AM from the second launch pad at this spaceport, situated about 135 km east of Chennai.
After a flight journey of approximately 15 minutes, the spacecraft, riding piggyback on the LVM3-M6 rocket (also known as the Bahubali rocket), was successfully separated and placed in orbit at an altitude of approximately 520 km, ISRO stated.
This is the largest commercial communications satellite to be deployed in Low Earth Orbit and also the heaviest payload to be launched by LVM3 from Indian soil.
The BlueBird Block-2 mission is part of the global LEO (Low Earth Orbit) constellation, providing direct-to-mobile connectivity through satellite. This constellation would enable 4G and 5G voice and video calls, texts, streaming and data for everyone, everywhere, at all times.
Congratulating the space scientists and engineers, Prime Minister Narendra said the successful launch of LVM3-M6 marks 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. It strengthens India’s heavy-lift launch capability and reinforces our growing role in the global commercial launch market. This is also reflective of our efforts towards an Aatmanirbhar Bharat. Congratulations to our hardworking space scientists and engineers. India continues to soar higher in the world of space!" he said.
The PM further said this will strengthen the foundations for future space missions. "Powered by India’s youth, our space programme is getting more advanced and impactful. With LVM3 demonstrating reliable heavy-lift performance, we are strengthening the foundations for future missions such as Gaganyaan, expanding commercial launch services and deepening global partnerships. This increased capability and boost to self-reliance are wonderful for the coming generations," he stated.
BlueBird Block-2 communication satellite
The mission is being undertaken as part of the commercial agreement signed between NewSpace India Ltd (NSIL) and US-based AST SpaceMobile (AST and Science, LLC). NewSpace India Ltd is the commercial arm of ISRO.
The BlueBird Block-2 is a 6.5-tonne spacecraft with an array that spans nearly 2,400 square feet, significantly boosting data capacity. It carries one of the largest phased array antennas ever placed in orbit, making a significant advancement in global communication technology.
The Bluebird-6 satellite represents an international collaboration between India and the US, highlighting a major milestone in satellite innovation, connectivity, expansion, and partnerships.
LVM3
Developed by ISRO, the LVM3 is a three-stage launch vehicle comprising two solid strap-on motors (S200), a liquid core stage (L110), and a cryogenic upper stage (C25). It has a lift-off mass of 640 tonnes, a height of 43.5 meters, and a payload capability of 4,200 kg to Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO).
