India’s Space Odyssey Continues: Modi Applauds LVM3-M6 Achievement

Updated: December 24, 2025 12:24

Image Source: NDTV Profit

ISRO’s LVM3-M6 rocket successfully launched the 6,100 kg BlueBird Block-2 satellite, the heaviest payload ever from Indian soil. PM Modi hailed it as a “proud milestone,” highlighting India’s strengthened heavy-lift capability and growing role in global commercial launches. The mission boosts ISRO’s credibility and supports India’s self-reliance vision.

India’s space program achieved another historic breakthrough on December 24, 2025, as the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) successfully launched the LVM3-M6 mission, carrying the BlueBird Block-2 satellite into orbit. Prime Minister Narendra Modi lauded the achievement, calling it a “proud milestone in India’s space journey”, and emphasized its significance for the nation’s growing role in the global space sector.

Mission Details

The LVM3-M6 rocket lifted off at 8:54 am IST from Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh, placing the BlueBird Block-2 satellite, built by US-based AST SpaceMobile, into its intended orbit.
Weighing approximately 6,100 kg, BlueBird Block-2 is the heaviest payload ever launched from Indian soil, marking a record for ISRO’s heavy-lift capabilities.

Strategic Importance

PM Modi highlighted that the successful launch strengthens India’s heavy-lift launch capability and reinforces the country’s growing role in the global commercial launch market.
The mission demonstrates India’s ability to handle large-scale international payloads, boosting confidence in ISRO’s reliability for global clients.
The Prime Minister also linked the achievement to the vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India), noting that such milestones lay the foundation for future missions like Gaganyaan.

Global Context

The BlueBird Block-2 satellite is part of AST SpaceMobile’s initiative to build the world’s first space-based cellular broadband network, underscoring India’s role in enabling cutting-edge global connectivity solutions.
With this launch, India further cements its position as a competitive player in the international space economy, offering cost-effective and reliable launch services.

Market & Scientific Impact

The success of LVM3-M6 enhances ISRO’s credibility in the commercial satellite launch market, potentially attracting more international collaborations.
It also signals India’s readiness to expand into next-generation missions, including human spaceflight and deeper space exploration.

Prime Minister Modi congratulated ISRO’s scientists and engineers, sharing a video of the launch on social media and calling it a “significant stride in India’s space sector.” The achievement reflects India’s steady march toward becoming a global space power.

Sources: India TV News, UNI India, Republic World, Press Information Bureau

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