India is set to launch the BlueBird 6 satellite into orbit tonight, marking a major step forward in direct-to-smartphone satellite broadband technology. The launch, scheduled for 10:24 PM EST (0334 GMT, 8:54 AM IST on Dec. 24), will deploy the largest commercial communication array ever unfurled in low Earth orbit (LEO).
What is BlueBird 6 and Why Does it Matter?
Built by Texas-based AST SpaceMobile, BlueBird 6 is designed to beam broadband service directly to regular smartphones without needing specialized hardware. The company’s goal is to provide connectivity to the billions of people worldwide who lack reliable internet access. Unlike traditional satellite internet, which requires bulky antennas, AST SpaceMobile’s approach uses massive arrays in space to cover wide areas.
This matters because current satellite broadband solutions often rely on expensive terminals. By bypassing this requirement, BlueBird 6 could make satellite internet accessible to a much wider population, particularly in remote or underserved regions.
Record-Breaking Technology
The satellite will launch aboard India’s LVM3 rocket from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre. BlueBird 6’s communication array spans nearly 2,400 square feet (223 square meters), dwarfing the 693-square-foot arrays of AST SpaceMobile’s previous five satellites (BlueBirds 1–5). This larger size allows the satellite to cover more ground with a stronger signal.
India’s Role in the Launch
India’s LVM3 rocket, a three-stage vehicle standing 143 feet tall, has a perfect launch record since its debut in 2014. Choosing India as the launch site underscores the country’s growing prominence in the commercial space sector. This mission also highlights international collaboration in pushing the boundaries of satellite technology.
How to Watch the Launch
The launch will be streamed live via Space.com and directly on AST SpaceMobile’s website, starting about 30 minutes before liftoff. This event marks a significant milestone in the race to deliver affordable, global broadband connectivity.
By leveraging the scale of LEO and record-breaking antenna technology, BlueBird 6 is poised to change the landscape of mobile internet access for billions.
