In News:

Following the successful NISAR (NASA–ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar) mission, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO)is preparing for its next major collaboration with the United States: the launch of the BlueBird communications satellite. The mission highlights India’s growing role as a reliable global launch partner and the expanding scope of Indo–U.S. space cooperation.

The BlueBird Satellite

• Developer: U.S.-based AST SpaceMobile
• Type: Advanced communications satellite designed for direct satellite-to-smartphone connectivity
• Weight: ~6,000 kg
• Antenna: Innovative 64-square-metre antenna array for high-capacity communication
• Orbit: Low Earth Orbit (LEO)
• Technology:
  • Enables direct calling and broadband access from space without the need for ground-based mobile towers
  • Supports beams up to 40 MHz capacity
  • Offers peak speeds of up to 120 Mbps
• Service Plan: After deployment, BlueBird satellites will provide non-continuous broadband cellular service initially in the U.S. and select global markets.

Launch Details

• Launch Vehicle: LVM3 (Launch Vehicle Mark-3), ISRO’s heaviest rocket, formerly known as GSLV Mk-III
• Launch Site: Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota
• Timeline: Expected launch in the next 3–4 months (as per ISRO chairman V. Narayanan)

Strategic Significance

• For India–U.S. Cooperation:
  • Follows the joint NISAR Earth observation mission, reinforcing strategic space ties.
  • Strengthens India’s position as a preferred partner for global commercial satellite launches.
• For India’s Space Economy:
  • Enhances ISRO’s reputation in heavy-lift commercial launches, particularly with LVM3.
  • Showcases India’s cost-effective access to space, attracting further foreign collaborations.
• For Global Communication Technology:
  • Marks a breakthrough in direct-to-device (D2D) connectivity, reducing dependency on ground infrastructure.
  • Could help expand mobile and broadband coverage to remote and underserved regions worldwide.