India's 'Baahubali' Launch Challenges SpaceX: 6,100kg US Satellite Blasts Off
Image Source: Internet
In a significant milestone, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) successfully launched the BlueBird Block-2 mission on Wednesday, carrying a massive 6,100-kilogram communication satellite from US-based AST SpaceMobile. Dubbed 'Baahubali' due to its massive scale, the launch marks a major challenge to SpaceX's dominance in the space-based connectivity market. The BlueBird Block-2 mission, onboard the LVM3 launch vehicle, took off from Sriharikota's second launchpad at 8:55 am on Wednesday. This dedicated commercial mission is the sixth operational flight of LVM3, according to ISRO. The satellite, weighing 6,100 kg, is the heaviest payload to be placed into the Low Earth Orbit (LEO) in LVM3's history, making it a historic achievement for ISRO. The BlueBird block-2 mission is part of a global LEO constellation aimed at providing direct-to-mobile connectivity through satellite, enabling 4G and 5G voice and video calls, texts, streaming, and data for everyone, everywhere, at all times. ISRO's LVM3 launch vehicle, a three-stage carrier, has a lift-off mass of 640 tonnes and a payload capability of 4,200 kg to Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO). Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed the mission as a boost to self-reliance, praising India's youth for powering the space programme's advancements and impact. The successful launch of the BlueBird Block-2 mission marks a significant step forward for ISRO, strengthening its foundations for future missions, including the Gaganyaan and expanding commercial launch services. As the space race intensifies, ISRO's achievement is a testament to India's growing capabilities in the space sector.
