Sriharikota/New Delhi: India achieved a major milestone in its commercial space journey as the LVM3 heavy-lift launch vehicle, popularly known as the ‘Baahubali’ rocket, successfully placed the BlueBird-6 satellite into orbit. It is the heaviest satellite ever launched by an Indian rocket, underlining the growing capabilities of the country’s space programme.
The 43.5-metre-tall LVM3 lifted off from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, carrying the 6,100-kg BlueBird-6 satellite. The mission was executed smoothly, with the satellite deployed into its designated orbit around 15 minutes after liftoff. A brief hold just before launch was undertaken as a precautionary measure to avoid potential space debris, reflecting increased focus on orbital safety.
BlueBird-6 is a next-generation communications satellite developed to provide space-based cellular broadband connectivity directly to standard mobile phones, without the need for specialised ground equipment. The satellite is part of a new class of large, high-capacity platforms designed to expand mobile coverage, particularly in remote and underserved regions.
The launch was carried out under a commercial agreement through NewSpace India Limited, the commercial arm of ISRO, marking another step in India’s expanding role in the global satellite launch market. With this mission, the LVM3 has further demonstrated its reliability and ability to handle complex, heavy payloads, a capability limited to only a few launch systems worldwide.
This was the eighth flight of the LVM3 and among its most significant commercial missions to date. The rocket has previously been used for high-profile national missions, including human spaceflight preparations and lunar exploration. The successful deployment of BlueBird-6 adds to its growing track record and strengthens confidence among international customers.
The mission is expected to open new opportunities for India in the competitive global launch sector, particularly for heavy commercial satellites. It also reinforces ISRO’s transition from primarily government-driven missions to a more balanced model that includes commercial partnerships.
With BlueBird-6 now in orbit, India has demonstrated that it can not only build and operate complex space systems but also serve as a reliable launch partner for some of the world’s most demanding satellite missions.
