Why in news?
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has scheduled the launch of the BlueBird‑6 satellite for 15 December 2025. Built by US company AST SpaceMobile, it is the heaviest American satellite to be launched by India and features the largest commercial phased‑array antenna ever put into low Earth orbit.
Background
AST SpaceMobile is developing a global network of satellites to deliver broadband connectivity directly to ordinary mobile phones. Its earlier BlueWalker 3 test satellite successfully demonstrated two‑way voice calls over cellular networks. BlueBird‑6 is part of the company’s next‑generation constellation and will be launched on ISRO’s LVM3 rocket, which can carry about 8 tonnes to low Earth orbit.
Key features of BlueBird‑6
- Massive phased array: The satellite carries a phased‑array antenna covering nearly 2,400 square feet (about 223 m²), the largest of its kind in low Earth orbit.
- High data capacity: BlueBird‑6 is 3.5 times larger than AST’s earlier satellites and provides 10 times more data capacity, with each satellite offering up to 10 GHz of bandwidth.
- Direct‑to‑device service: The payload is designed to beam broadband signals directly to standard mobile phones without the need for ground gateways. This can extend connectivity to remote and underserved regions worldwide.
- Constellation plans: AST aims to launch 45–60 such satellites by the end of 2026, with multiple launches scheduled every one or two months.
Significance
Launching BlueBird‑6 demonstrates ISRO’s growing role as a commercial launch provider. For AST SpaceMobile, the satellite marks a major step toward building a space‑based mobile network. If successful, direct‑to‑device satellite broadband could revolutionise connectivity in rural and remote areas, enabling voice and data services without traditional cellular towers. The mission also highlights international cooperation in space technology.
Sources: TOI