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5mo ago

ISRO Sets Dec. 24 LVM3 Launch for AST SpaceMobile’s 6.5-Ton BlueBird-6

The high‑mass commercial flight signals India’s expanding launch services role, with parallel progress on Gaganyaan alongside a next‑generation vehicle program.

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The objective is to rigorously test the crew module’s performance. (Photo: Isro)
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Overview

  • Liftoff is scheduled for 08:54 IST on December 24 from the Second Launch Pad at Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, ISRO announced.
  • The mission will place AST SpaceMobile’s roughly 6,500 kg BlueBird-6 into low Earth orbit, described as the heaviest payload yet for an Indian rocket.
  • BlueBird-6 is designed for direct-to-device cellular broadband and carries a nearly 2,400 square foot phased-array antenna as part of the company’s next-generation constellation.
  • The flight is a dedicated commercial launch executed by NewSpace India Limited under contract with the Texas-based firm, marking LVM3’s third commercial outing and first for a U.S. customer.
  • Official updates state Gaganyaan’s first uncrewed mission assembly is nearing completion with the first crewed flight targeted for 2027–28, while the government has approved an NGLV with up to 30-ton LEO capacity and is advancing high-thrust propulsion R&D.