PM Modi Hails LVM3-M6 Launch Of BlueBird 6 As Major Boost To India’s Space Ambitions

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday praised the successful launch of India’s Launch Vehicle Mark-3 (LVM3)-M6, carrying the BlueBird 6 satellite, describing it as a ‘significant stride’ in the nation’s space sector.

The rocket lifted off from Sriharikota in Andhra Pradesh, placing the heaviest satellite ever launched from Indian soil into its intended orbit.

In a post on X, PM Modi stated, “The successful LVM3-M6 launch, placing the heaviest satellite ever launched from Indian soil, the spacecraft of the 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!”

Union Minister of State for Science and Technology, Jitendra Singh, also congratulated ISRO on the achievement. In a separate X post, Singh said, “Kudos Team #ISRO for the successful launch of LVM3-M6 carrying BlueBird Block-2. With the visionary patronage of PM Sh@narendramodi, @isro continues to achieve one success after another, reiterating India’s growing prowess in Space technology.”

Technical Highlights and Satellite Details

LVM3 successfully placed the 6,100 kg communication satellite, the heaviest payload ever, into Low Earth Orbit (LEO).

It surpasses the previous record held by LVM3-M5, which carried a 4,400 kg satellite in November. BlueBird Block-2 is part of the next-generation BlueBird Block-2 communication satellites, designed to provide space-based 4G and 5G connectivity directly to standard mobile smartphones.

Standing 43.5 metres tall and supported by two S200 solid boosters, the rocket lifted off at 8:55 AM following a 24-hour countdown.

After approximately 15 minutes, the spacecraft is expected to separate and attain its designated orbit at around 520 km, according to ISRO.

The mission forms part of a commercial agreement between NewSpace India Ltd (NSIL), the commercial arm of ISRO, and the US-based AST SpaceMobile (AST and Science, LLC).

It marks the sixth operational flight of the LVM3 launch vehicle and represents a significant leap in India’s telecommunications and commercial space capabilities.

Also Read: India Strengthens Global Space Role With Successful BlueBird Block-2 Launch