Produced by: Mohsin Shaikh
India is set to launch a U.S. satellite enabling direct mobile calls from space, using ordinary smartphones.
Representative pic
For the first time, India’s LVM-3 rocket will launch a massive U.S. communications satellite.
Texas-based AST SpaceMobile claims its satellite connects directly to smartphones, bypassing special equipment.
The Bluebird satellite, nearly 6,000 kg with a 64-square-meter antenna, will revolutionize connectivity.
AST SpaceMobile’s mission is to bridge the digital divide, bringing 5G broadband to underserved areas.
The launch marks a milestone for ISRO as American companies place trust in India’s rocket capabilities.
AST SpaceMobile’s direct-to-mobile connectivity competes with Starlink and OneWeb’s satellite constellations.
The satellite aims to integrate remote populations into the global economy through accessible connectivity.
Spearheaded by NSIL, this launch highlights India’s growing role in the global commercial space market.