ISRO conducts successful model rocket test in UP’s Kushinagar ahead of student space contest

Before the upcoming student rocketry competition, the Astronautical Society of India (ASI), ISRO and IN-SPACe conducted a systems validation trial on June 14 in Kushinagar, Uttar Pradesh. (Image: PTI)

A sleepy village in eastern Uttar Pradesh saw something remarkable. Under morning sunlight filtering through the leaves, a slender model rocket soared upwards — not for fireworks or glory, but to push the boundaries of student aspirations. The location in Rakaba Jangal Patti, Sevrahi, Tamkuhi Raj, Kushinagar, hummed with excitement on June 14–15, as students, scientists, and engineers converged for a special launch.

Test Flight Ahead of National Rocketry Challenge

This was not a typical launch with a satellite in tow. Instead, it was a systems check for the upcoming IN-SPACe CANSAT and Model Rocketry India Student Competition 2024–25. Jointly organised by the Astronautical Society of India (ASI), ISRO, and IN-SPACe, the contest aims to bring hands-on learning in space tech to students across India.

The trial confirmed that the site met all competition needs. Experts checked communication range, safety margins, and recovery setups. The two successful flights also validated the rocket launcher system developed by Thrust Tech India Pvt. Ltd. under the guidance of ISRO and IN-SPACe. The rocket, weighing 15 kg, reached nearly 1 kilometre in altitude and deployed a CAN-sized 1 kg satellite, which floated down by parachute.

Space Dreams from Village Roots

This launch marks an important step towards the competition finals, scheduled for October–November 2025. Over 900 student-built rockets and CANSATs are expected to take flight then. The trials ensured the launcher will meet the demands of the student teams’ designs, which are currently being reviewed by space experts.

The event’s success was made possible by the support of local leadership. Hon’ble MP Shashank Mani from Deoria played a key role in bringing the initiative to this rural site. Dr Vinod Kumar, Director of the Promotion Directorate at IN-SPACe, joined Shri Shashank Ji, and Kushinagar District Magistrate Mahender Singh Tawar during the trials.

An MoU was signed between ASI, IN-SPACe, and the District Science Club of Kushinagar for coordination and support. The effort reflects IN-SPACe’s broader goal — to foster young talent and expand access to India’s evolving space landscape.