ISRO's Next Milestone: LVM3-M5 Prepares to Launch High-Tech BlueBird Satellite

The Cryogenic Upper Stage (C25) of ISRO's LVM3 launch vehicle was recently flagged off from the ISRO Propulsion Complex (IPRC) in Mahendragiri, Tamil Nadu, to the launch complex at Sriharikota. This marks a significant step for the fifth operational mission of LVM3 (LVM3-M5), which is set to launch the advanced American communications satellite, BlueBird Block-2.

This stage, powered by the indigenous CE20 cryogenic engine, has a propellant capacity of 28.5 tonnes and was developed by the Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre (LPSC). The upcoming mission is part of a commercial agreement between New Space India Limited (NSIL) and AST & Science, LLC.

The BlueBird satellite, weighing approximately 6,000 kg, will operate in Low Earth Orbit and is designed to enable direct satellite-to-smartphone communication, a groundbreaking technological advancement.

It's an important milestone for ISRO, showcasing India's growing role in global space commerce.

BlueBird Block 2 satellite

A computer rendering of AST SpaceMobile's five first-generation, Block 1 BlueBird commercial satellites in low Earth orbit. The spacecraft are designed to provide the first-ever space-based cellular broadband service to unmodified mobile phones. Five of the satellites launched on September 12, 2024 and unfolded throughout October 2024. [ IMAGE - ast-science.com] 

The BlueBird Block 2 satellite is developed by Texas, US -based AST SpaceMobile, which has collaborated with ISRO for the launch of its BlueBird Block-2 satellites using the LVM3 rocket. This partnership underscores India's growing role in global space commerce.

The satellite represents a significant leap in space-based cellular broadband technology. These satellites are designed to provide direct-to-smartphone connectivity without the need for ground-based infrastructure. Each satellite features expansive communication arrays, measuring up to 2,400 square feet, making them the largest commercial communication arrays ever deployed in Low Earth Orbit (LEO).

The Block 2 satellites are capable of delivering data speeds of up to 120 Mbps, supporting high-demand applications like HD video streaming and real-time data sharing. This technology aims to bridge connectivity gaps, especially in remote and underserved areas, by creating a global space-based cellular network.

Notably, AST SpaceMobile has established a research and development hub in Hyderabad, focusing on next-generation hardware, software, and space-related technologies. This facility is expected to drive innovation and strengthen AST SpaceMobile's technological capabilities.