ISRO to launch US satellite to enable voice calls via smartphones from Space

The Indian Space and Research Organisation (ISRO) is all set to launch a massive American communications satellite, enabling phone calls via direct connectivity from space. This is a more inventive and modern approach to satellite telephony than the current services, according to a report by NDTV.

This will be the first time a US company launches a massive communications satellite in an Indian rocket. Until now, India has only launched small satellites manufactured by American companies.

This satellite will enable voice communication on mobile phones, allowing users to make calls directly from space using their smartphones. According to India’s science minister, Dr Jitendra Singh, “In February or March we will be launching a US satellite for mobile communication; this satellite will enable voice communication on mobile phones. It will be an interesting mission”.

There has been no official confirmation of the American satellite operator manufacturing the communications satellite. As per the experts, the satellite is expected to be launched by AST SpaceMobile, a Texas-based company, from Sriharikota.

AST SpaceMobile said that one can use any smartphone to make voice calls. Most other current satellite-based Internet and voice call companies need consumers to purchase specific handsets or use special terminals, such as Starlink.

Reports said that in an investor call, AST SpaceMobile CEO Abel Avellan confirmed they would use the Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV) to launch a single Block 2 of the Bluebird satellite.

The Bluebird satellite, weighing approximately 6,000 kg, will feature a massive 64 square-meter antenna, roughly half the size of a football field. Avellan stated they “invented a technology that connects satellites directly to ordinary cell phones and provides broadband internet through the largest ever commercial phase array in low Earth orbit”.

According to the CEO, AST SpaceMobile’s mission aims to close the global connectivity gap and provide affordable 5G broadband services to billions worldwide.