Prime Minister Narendra Modi has praised the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) for the successful launch of its LVM3-M6 mission, which placed the BlueBird Block-2 satellite into orbit. Calling the achievement a “proud milestone,” the Prime Minister emphasized that India’s space program continues to reach new heights.
The launch, conducted from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, saw India’s heavy-lift rocket, the LVM3, successfully deploy the US communications satellite into Earth’s orbit. Weighing 6,100 kg, BlueBird Block-2 is the heaviest satellite ever launched from Indian soil.
A Milestone for ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’
In a statement on social media, PM Modi congratulated ISRO’s scientists and engineers, noting that this mission underscores India’s growing capabilities in the global space sector. He stated:
“A significant stride in India’s space sector… The successful LVM3-M6 launch, placing the heaviest satellite ever launched from Indian soil… into its intended orbit, marks a proud milestone in India’s space journey.”
He further highlighted that the mission strengthens India’s heavy-lift launch capability and reinforces the nation’s role in the commercial launch market, aligning with the vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India).
Key Highlights of the Mission
- Rocket: LVM3 (Launch Vehicle Mark-3), India’s heaviest rocket.
- Payload: BlueBird Block-2, a US communications satellite weighing 6,100 kg.
- Orbit: The satellite was injected into a circular orbit of approximately 520 km.
- Significance: This was the heaviest payload launched by an Indian vehicle on Indian soil and marked the third dedicated commercial mission for the LVM3. It was also the first time ISRO conducted back-to-back LVM3 launches within 52 days.
Empowering Future Generations
PM Modi also credited India’s youth for driving the advancements in the space program. He noted that the reliability of the LVM3 rocket lays a strong foundation for future ambitious projects, such as the human spaceflight mission Gaganyaan, and further expands India’s commercial launch services.
With this launch, ISRO has now successfully placed 434 satellites for 34 countries, cementing its position as a reliable partner in the global space industry.
As India continues to break barriers in space exploration, the world watches its ascent with admiration.
