Space BlueBird Block-2 satellite ISRO will launch the Bluebird Block-2 on board its heavy lift launch vehicle LVM3-M6 from Sriharikota. It designed to provide space-based cellular broadband connectivity directly to standard mobile smartphones. Bluebird Block 2 is a communication satellite of AST SpaceMobiles, USA. LVM3 LVM3, developed by ISRO, is a three-stage launch vehicle comprising two solid strap-on motors (S200), a liquid core stage (L110), and a cryogenic upper stage (C25). LVM3 successfully launched Chandrayaan-2, Chandrayaan-3, and two OneWeb missions carrying 72 satellites. LVM3-M6 LVM3-M6 will place the BlueBird Block-2 satellite, into the Low Earth Orbit and is the largest commercial communications satellite to be deployed in Low Earth Orbit. It will also be the heaviest payload to be launched by LVM3 from Indian soil.
SCIENCE
Space Drogue parachute tests successfully conducted A series of qualification tests for drogue parachutes, which have been carried out to develop a deceleration system for the ISRO’s Gaganyaan crew module, were successful. Location: These tests were completed at the Rail Track Rocket Sled (RTRS) facility of the Terminal Ballistics Research Laboratory (TBRL) in Chandigarh. Purpose: crucial component of this system is the deployment of drogue parachutes, which play a pivotal role in stabilising the crew module and reducing its velocity to a safe level during re-entry. Gaganayan Mission Aim: The Gaganyaan Mission is India's ambitious human spaceflight program, aimed at sending Indian astronauts to space. The Gaganyaan Mission is India’s ongoing project to send a 3-day manned mission to the Low Earth Orbit (LEO) of 400 km with a crew of 3 members. Mission Objectives To demonstrate indigenous capability to undertake human space flights. Foundation for a sustained Indian human space exploration programme. Gaganyaan also encourages and supports micro-gravity experiments. BlueBird Block-2 satellite The Indian Space Research Organisation’s upcoming LVM3 M6 mission will place the BlueBird Block-2 satellite into orbit on December 24. Purpose: The mission will deploy a next-generation communication satellite aimed at providing high-speed cellular broadband directly to smartphones across the globe.
