ISRO’s heavy-lift Launch Vehicle Mark-3 (LVM3-M6) was successfully launched on Wednesday morning, December 24, 2025, after a brief precautionary delay of 90 seconds. The rocket lifted off from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC) in Sriharikota at 8:55:30 am IST, slightly later than the scheduled 8:54 am launch.
ISRO Confirmed on X
Launch Day for #LVM3M6.
LVM3-M6 lifts off today at 08:55:30 IST with BlueBird Block-2 from SDSC SHAR.
Youtube Livestreaming link:https://t.co/FMYCs31L3j
🕗 08:25 IST onwardsFor More information Visit:https://t.co/PBYwLU4Ogy
#LVM3M6 #BlueBirdBlock2 #ISRO #NSIL pic.twitter.com/5q3RfttHZh— ISRO (@isro) December 24, 2025
About the BlueBird Block-2 Mission
The LVM3-M6/BlueBird Block-2 mission marks the sixth operational flight of the LVM3 and is a dedicated commercial launch. It was conducted under an agreement between NewSpace India Limited (NSIL) and US-based AST SpaceMobile, highlighting ISRO’s expanding commercial launch role.
LVM3’s Technical Capabilities
Developed by ISRO, the LVM3 is a three-stage launch vehicle featuring two S200 solid strap-on motors, a liquid core stage (L110), and a cryogenic upper stage (C25). Standing 43.5 metres tall, it can carry payloads of up to 4,200 kg to Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit.
BlueBird Block-2 Satellite Details
According to PTI, the BlueBird Block-2 satellite is part of a Low Earth Orbit constellation designed to deliver space-based cellular broadband directly to smartphones. It aims to support 4G and 5G voice, data, video, and messaging services worldwide and is expected to separate from the rocket approximately 15 minutes after lift-off.
Reason Behind the Revised Launch Time
According to reports, the delay was implemented as a safety measure due to a possible space debris conjunction along the rocket’s flight path. ISRO reportedly detected a potential risk involving orbital debris or another satellite crossing the planned trajectory, prompting mission controllers to revise the launch timing.
PM Modi Hails ISRO’s Achievement
Following the successful liftoff, Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised ISRO and highlighted India’s advancing space capabilities.
Powered by India’s youth, our space programme is getting more advanced and impactful.
With LVM3 demonstrating reliable heavy-lift performance, we are strengthening the foundations for future missions such as Gaganyaan, expanding commercial launch services and deepening global… pic.twitter.com/f53SiUXyZr
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) December 24, 2025
