Communication satellite of US firm to be launched by ISRO on December 24

Context:

• The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is set to launch a communication satellite for a US-based private company, AST SpaceMobile, highlighting India’s growing role in the global commercial space launch market.

• The mission reflects increasing international collaboration and the expansion of private participation in space technology.

Key Highlights:

Mission Details

• ISRO’s LVM3 rocket will launch AST SpaceMobile’s satellite “BlueBird Block-2”.

• The launch is scheduled for December 24, 2025, at 08:54 hrs IST.

• It will take place from Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC-SHAR), Sriharikota.

• The mission is designated LVM3-M6.

Satellite Objective

• The BlueBird Block-2 satellite aims to provide:

  • 24/7 high-speed cellular broadband

  • Direct connectivity to standard smartphones

  • Enhanced global coverage, especially in remote areas

Commercial Agreement

• This is a dedicated commercial mission carried out under an agreement with NewSpace India Limited (NSIL).

• NSIL acts as ISRO’s commercial arm for:

  • Marketing launch services

  • Commercializing Indian space technologies

  • Expanding India’s presence in private space markets

Significance of the Launch

• Demonstrates India’s emergence as a reliable partner in international satellite launches.

• Strengthens the role of commercial space ventures in the global space economy.

• Enhances India’s standing in the rapidly growing satellite broadband sector.

Relevant Prelims Points:

LVM3 (GSLV Mk III)

• India’s heavy-lift launch vehicle developed by ISRO.

• Used for:

  • Deploying satellites into geostationary orbit

  • Supporting major missions like Chandrayaan

AST SpaceMobile Technology

• Developing next-generation satellites capable of connecting directly with mobile devices without ground towers.

Key Terms

• Commercial Space Launch: Launch services provided for private or foreign clients under contract.

• Satellite Communication: Satellites relay communication signals over long distances, enabling broadband, television, navigation, etc.

Benefits and Impact

• Boosts India’s space economy and foreign revenue through commercial missions.

• Promotes innovation in telecom and broadband connectivity.

• Supports India’s goal of becoming a major hub for space services.

Challenges

• Growing competition from firms like SpaceX.

• Need for strong regulatory frameworks for private space partnerships.

Relevant Mains Points:

India’s Space Diplomacy and International Relations

• Such launches enhance India’s soft power and global partnerships through space cooperation.

• Reflects India’s role in shaping the future of commercial space governance.

Role of NSIL and Private Sector Expansion

• NSIL represents India’s shift towards a market-driven space ecosystem.

• Encourages private investment and aligns with reforms in the Indian space sector.

Strategic and Economic Importance

• Satellite broadband can bridge the digital divide globally.

• Commercial launches contribute to India’s ambitions under the Space Policy 2023.

Way Forward

• Strengthen private sector participation with clear regulatory support.

• Expand launch capacity and infrastructure.

• Enhance India’s competitiveness in the global space launch market.

UPSC Relevance (GS-wise):

• GS 2: International collaboration, space diplomacy

• GS 3: Space technology, commercial space sector, satellite communication

• Prelims: LVM3, NSIL, satellite broadband, commercial launch missions