ISRO Makes History with First Rocket Launch from Kushinagar, Uttar Pradesh

In a landmark moment for Indian space exploration, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) successfully conducted its first-ever rocket launch from Kushinagar in Uttar Pradesh. The event, which took place on Saturday, marked a historic first for the region and showcased India’s continued progress in decentralizing space operations beyond traditional launch sites.

The launch was carried out in collaboration with Thrust Tech India Limited, a private aerospace technology firm. At exactly 5:14:33 p.m., a 15-kilogram rocket soared into the sky, reaching an altitude of 1.1 kilometers. Onboard was a small satellite (payload) designed to test deployment systems. According to ISRO scientist Abhishek Singh, after reaching its peak altitude, the satellite descended to about 5 meters above ground before deploying a parachute, ensuring a controlled and safe landing within a 400-meter area. The rocket itself also made a safe descent back to Earth, validating both launch and recovery systems.

This mission is especially significant as it represents the very first time a satellite has been launched into the atmosphere by rocket from the state of Uttar Pradesh. While earlier tests in places like Ahmedabad involved drone-assisted payload launches, this marked a true rocket-based atmospheric deployment in the state—an impressive technical feat.

More than just a technical demonstration, the launch also laid the foundation for an upcoming mega-event scheduled for October-November this year. Around 900 satellites, all built by students and young innovators, are expected to be tested in what will be a massive youth engagement initiative. This upcoming program aims to ignite curiosity in space science among children and teenagers, not only in Uttar Pradesh but across India.

Vinod Kumar, Director of Thrust Tech India, expressed pride in the motor test and the successful execution of the mission. He emphasized that this effort goes beyond engineering, serving as an educational milestone that could inspire a new generation of scientists, engineers, and space enthusiasts.

The success of the Kushinagar launch signals ISRO’s evolving vision—one that includes expanding launch capabilities to different parts of the country. It also reflects the growing synergy between public institutions like ISRO and private companies such as Thrust Tech India, creating new opportunities for regional development in the space sector.

Ultimately, this achievement is not only a technological triumph but also a powerful message: India's journey to space is becoming more inclusive, more innovative, and more inspiring than ever before.