Gujarat Creates Space History as Startup Launches State’s First Sounding Rocket at Dholera

Dholera | Gujarat — Gujarat entered a new chapter in the field of space research on Saturday after the state’s first sounding rocket was successfully launched from Bavliyari near Dholera, marking a major milestone for India’s growing private space sector.

The rocket was developed and launched by Ahmedabad-based startup Omspace Rocket and Exploration Private Limited (OSRE) and took off from a temporary launch facility at Bavliyari at around 1:00 pm. The historic launch was carried out in the presence of Gujarat’s Minister for Science and Technology, Arjun Modhwadia, along with scientists, government officials and industry representatives.

The successful mission signals Gujarat’s growing ambitions in the space technology sector and aligns with the state government’s vision of encouraging private participation in advanced scientific research.

Speaking after the launch, Minister Arjun Modhwadia said the mission represents a major step toward technological self-reliance. “This achievement shows that Gujarat is ready to play a significant role in India’s expanding space ecosystem. Through the Gujarat Spacetech Policy 2025–2030, we are encouraging startups and young innovators to develop indigenous space technologies,” he said.

The single-stage sub-orbital sounding rocket was designed to test multiple advanced technologies including propulsion systems, avionics and an autonomous recovery mechanism. During the mission, the rocket successfully reached an altitude of around 3 kilometres, completing all primary technical objectives.

A mini satellite payload capable of collecting weather-related data was also installed in the rocket, demonstrating its potential for scientific research and atmospheric monitoring.

According to Omspace officials, the rocket’s airframe was built using carbon fibre and advanced composite materials developed in the company’s Ahmedabad laboratory under the ‘Make in India’ initiative.

Dr. Ravindra Raj, Founder and CEO of Omspace Rocket and Exploration, described the launch as a major breakthrough for the startup and the state. “This successful mission proves that private Indian companies can design and develop advanced space technologies domestically. With the support of the Gujarat government, we are now moving towards developing India’s first fully indigenous reusable launch vehicle, named ‘Infinity One’,” he said.

Dr. Raj added that the company aims to create opportunities for young engineers and scientists who want to contribute to India’s space missions.

The launch was conducted with approvals and technical coordination from the Airports Authority of India (AAI), Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and the Indian Coast Guard, ensuring all safety protocols were followed.

The mission was also carried out under the authorization of IN-SPACe, the national regulatory body that facilitates private sector participation in India’s space activities.