'Watch out Elon Musk': ISRO’s rocket to launch a satellite that lets your phone call from space

Produced by: Mohsin Shaikh

Space call

India is set to launch a U.S. satellite enabling direct mobile calls from space, using ordinary smartphones.

Representative pic

Rocket debut

For the first time, India’s LVM-3 rocket will launch a massive U.S. communications satellite.

AST tech

Texas-based AST SpaceMobile claims its satellite connects directly to smartphones, bypassing special equipment.

Bluebird power

The Bluebird satellite, nearly 6,000 kg with a 64-square-meter antenna, will revolutionize connectivity.

Global gap

AST SpaceMobile’s mission is to bridge the digital divide, bringing 5G broadband to underserved areas.

ISRO boost

The launch marks a milestone for ISRO as American companies place trust in India’s rocket capabilities.

Rival giants

AST SpaceMobile’s direct-to-mobile connectivity competes with Starlink and OneWeb’s satellite constellations.

Economic impact

The satellite aims to integrate remote populations into the global economy through accessible connectivity.

Purely commercial

Spearheaded by NSIL, this launch highlights India’s growing role in the global commercial space market.