PM Modi Hails ISRO’s BlueBird Block‑2 Launch as a “Proud Milestone” in India’s Space Journey
- MGMMTeam
- 1 hour ago
- 3 min read
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday congratulated the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) after the successful launch of the BlueBird Block‑2 communication satellite, calling the mission a “proud milestone” in the country’s expanding space capabilities.
The satellite was deployed aboard ISRO’s LVM3‑M6 heavy‑lift rocket from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh, early on December 24, marking another high point in India’s space exploration efforts.
Record‑Setting Launch from Sriharikota
The 43.5‑metre LVM3‑M6 — often referred to as ISRO’s powerful ‘Bahubali’ rocket — lifted off at approximately 8:55 AM IST on Wednesday, successfully placing the BlueBird Block‑2 satellite into the intended Low Earth Orbit (LEO). At around 6,100 kg, this spacecraft is the heaviest payload ever launched by an LVM3 rocket from Indian soil, underscoring the vehicle’s reliable heavy‑lift performance.
Executed under a commercial agreement between NewSpace India Limited (NSIL) — the commercial arm of ISRO — and AST SpaceMobile, a U.S. satellite technology firm, the mission represents a significant step in India’s emergence as a trusted partner in global commercial space launches.
Boost to Global Connectivity Technology
The BlueBird Block‑2 satellite is part of AST SpaceMobile’s next‑generation Low Earth Orbit (LEO) constellation, designed to deliver space‑based cellular broadband connectivity directly to standard mobile devices, including 4G and 5G services, without requiring specialised ground hardware. This puts the mission at the forefront of efforts to bridge connectivity gaps in remote and underserved regions worldwide.
Engineered with advanced phased‑array antennas to enable robust data, voice, and streaming capabilities, the spacecraft aims to transform how millions connect to the internet — especially in areas with little or no terrestrial network coverage.
Prime Minister’s Message and National Impact
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Prime Minister Modi congratulated ISRO’s scientists and engineers, stating that the mission “marks a proud milestone in India’s space journey.” He emphasised that the success highlights India’s growing prowess in space science and reinforces its role in the global commercial launch market. Modiji also said the achievement contributes significantly to the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat — a self‑reliant India.
The Prime Minister’s message reflected both national pride and strategic optimism, as he highlighted that the reliable performance of the LVM3 will help strengthen foundations for future initiatives, including crewed missions like Gaganyaan and expanded international collaboration.
A New Era for Indian Space Commerce
The successful execution of this dedicated commercial mission marks the sixth operational flight of the LVM3 vehicle, which has previously supported several high‑profile missions including lunar explorations and international satellite deployments. The milestone enhances India’s credibility among global space agencies and private firms seeking dependable and cost‑effective launch services.
With the satellite now safely in orbit and commencing its mission to facilitate next‑generation mobile connectivity, India has underscored its technological confidence and strategic relevance in the rapidly evolving global space economy.
The MGMM Outlook
India’s recent BlueBird Block‑2 satellite launch marks a significant leap in both national space capabilities and the country’s role in the global space economy. Deployed via the LVM3‑M6 “Bahubali” rocket from Sriharikota, the 6,100 kg satellite is the heaviest payload ever launched by an LVM3, demonstrating ISRO’s proven heavy-lift capacity. The mission, executed under a commercial partnership with AST SpaceMobile, positions India as a reliable player for international satellite launches while supporting global connectivity through space-based 4G and 5G services. This achievement highlights the nation’s growing technological competence, reflecting strategic self-reliance and the ambition to bridge digital divides worldwide.
The success of BlueBird Block‑2 also reinforces India’s credibility in commercial space endeavors, complementing past achievements including lunar missions and international collaborations. Equipped with advanced phased-array antennas, the satellite will enhance voice, data, and streaming services, particularly in underserved regions. Beyond technological advancement, this mission underscores a strategic vision for India to strengthen its space infrastructure, pursue future crewed missions like Gaganyaan, and expand its presence in the competitive global satellite launch market, solidifying the nation’s standing as a technologically confident and innovative space power.
(Sources: News18, Hindustan Times, Firstpost)