ISRO successfully launches Bluebird Block-2, the heaviest payload on LVM-3 M6 mission
Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) has successfully launched LVM-3 M6 mission from Sriharikota. The commentary described a ‘majestic lift-off’ as the rocket carrying the Bluebird Block-2 satellite (referred to as ‘Bluebird Lock-2’ in the transcript) soared into the sky. Technical updates confirmed that ‘both S-200 motors fired’ and were operating normally, with each motor producing ‘5952 kN’ of thrust. The mission successfully separated the S-200 booster and payload fairing, marking a significant commercial milestone. The transcript also notes the introduction of a ‘cryo stage’ and the use of ‘closed loop guidance’ to ensure the rocket’s path.
latest video
ISRO LVM-3 launches Bluebird: Nambi Narayanan hails mission as ‘game changer’ for India
In a historic milestone for India’s space programme, the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) successfully launched commercial satellite Bluebird on an LVM-3 rocket from Sriharikota. Weighing 6,100 kg, it is the heaviest satellite ever carried by LVM-3. Speaking on the broadcast, former ISRO scientist Nambi Narayanan termed the mission as a ‘game changer’ for India’s position in the global commercial market. He highlighted the vehicle’s ‘low cost with high reliability’ as a key factor attracting international customers such as US-based AST Spacemobile. Narayanan said, ‘This is going to be a game changer because… we will get priority compared to anyone else.’ Space scientist PK Ghosh also joined the discussion, emphasizing that India has proven itself as ‘one of the world’s most reliable satellite launchers’ while remaining cost-effective compared to competitors like SpaceX.
ISRO LVM-3 launched: 6,100 kg Bluebird Block-2, India’s heaviest commercial payload
In this special report, India Today Bureau Chief Pramod Madhav gives details of ISRO’s historic LVM-3 M6 mission from Sriharikota. The ‘Baahubali’ rocket is set to launch the 6,100 kg Bluebird Block-2 satellite, the heaviest commercial payload ever lifted from Indian soil. Pramod Madhav explains that this mission by US-based AST Spacemobile aims to provide direct-to-mobile connectivity, eliminating the need for ground towers. He highlighted how ISRO is entering a ‘niche market’ for heavy commercial satellites. Anchor Anjili Istwal noted the importance of the mission for India’s global space reputation.
Sacked Karnataka minister KN Rajanna meets CM Siddaramaiah amid letter controversy
In a significant political development in Karnataka, sacked minister and Congress MLA KN Rajanna met Chief Minister Siddaramaiah at his residence. The meeting comes after a dinner with Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar and the leak of a letter written by Rajanna to Rahul Gandhi regarding his suspension. In the letter, Rajanna reportedly blamed KPCC president DK Shivakumar for the party’s performance and said that if ‘the President had paid more attention to the voter list’, the results would have been different. Rajanna, a Siddaramaiah loyalist, was dropped from the cabinet in August 2025 after criticizing Rahul Gandhi’s ‘vote stealing’ allegations.
Space scientist PK Ghosh: ISRO’s LVM-3 launch of US Bluebird satellite an ‘important step’
In a historic milestone for India’s space sector, ISRO’s LVM-3 ‘Baahubali’ rocket is set to launch the US Bluebird satellite from Sriharikota today. Weighing 6,100 kg, it is the heaviest commercial payload ever lifted by an Indian launcher. Highlighting its importance, space scientist PK Ghosh said, ‘India has one of the most reliable launches in the world… We are not only cheap but also reliable.’ This mission underlines India’s growing strength in the global commercial launch market. India Today’s Shibu Tripathi reports that the satellite will provide 4G and 5G broadband connectivity as part of a major constellation. This launch marks the sixth operational flight of LVM-3, further cementing its position as a workhorse for heavy-lift missions.