ISRO's Bluebird Block-2 Mission Set to Revolutionize Global Connectivity on Wednesday

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India's space agency ISRO is gearing up to launch the Bluebird Block-2 mission, a historic commercial mission that will deploy the next generation communication satellite. The LVM3-M6 rocket, carrying the 6,100 kg Bluebird Block-2 spacecraft, is scheduled to blast off from the second launch pad at Sriharikota at 8:54 am on Wednesday. This mission marks a significant milestone in ISRO's commercial space program and is part of a global Low Earth Orbit (LEO) constellation that aims to provide direct-to-mobile connectivity worldwide. The Bluebird Block-2 satellite, designed and developed by AST SpaceMobile, will be the heaviest payload to be placed into Low Earth Orbit in LVM3 launch history, surpassing the previous record set by the LVM3-M5 Communication Satellite 03. The satellite features a 223m2 phased array, making it the largest commercial communications satellite ever deployed into low Earth Orbit, about 600km altitude. This mission is a result of a commercial agreement signed between NewSpace India Ltd and US-based AST SpaceMobile. The Bluebird Block-2 satellite will enable 4G and 5G voice and video calls, texts, streaming, and data for everyone, everywhere at all times. The successful launch of this mission will mark a significant step towards establishing a global LEO constellation that can provide internet coverage across various countries. ISRO Chairman V Narayanan offered prayers at the Sri Venkateswara Swamy Temple in Tirumala ahead of the launch. The LVM3 rocket, a three-stage vehicle with a cryogenic engine, is designed and developed by ISRO's Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre. The rocket uses two S200 solid rocket boosters to provide the required thrust for liftoff. The Bluebird Block-2 mission is part of a larger plan by AST SpaceMobile to launch similar satellites and augment its network support. The company has already launched five satellites, BlueBird 1-5, which provide continuous internet coverage across the United States and other select countries. With over 50 mobile operators across the globe as partners, AST SpaceMobile is working towards establishing a global network that can provide internet connectivity to people everywhere, at all times.