Isro successfully conducts first rocket-based payload launch from Uttar Pradesh

On Saturday, the Indian Space Research Organisation (Isro) successfully conducted its inaugural rocket launch from Uttar Pradesh in partnership with Thrust Tech India Limited, signifying the first time a satellite payload has been deployed via a rocket from the state.

The launch occurred at 5:14 pm, with the 15-kg rocket rising to a height of 1.1 kilometres before safely returning to the earth.

“The rocket reached a height of 1.1 km, and shortly after, a small payload was released. Once it dropped to about five metres from the ground, its parachute deployed and the satellite landed within 400 metres of the launch site,” news agency PTI quoted Isro scientist Abhishek Singh as saying.

In contrast to past Isro-supported experiments in Ahmedabad that utilized drone deployment, this trial featured a direct rocket launch—marking a pioneering accomplishment for the state of Uttar Pradesh.

Officials affirmed the test as a complete success, indicating that it acted as a precursor to a significantly larger activity scheduled for October-November, where almost 900 satellites constructed by students will undergo testing.

Thrust Tech India Director Vinod Kumar also confirmed that the company’s motor test, integral to the launch, was successful. “This initiative aims to ignite curiosity about space technology among children not only in the region but across the country,” Kumar added.