Source: TOI
Context:
Two Indian space-tech startups successfully launched their satellites onboard SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket, marking another milestone for India’s growing private space industry.
Key Highlights:
- Startups Involved: Dhruva Space (Hyderabad) and Skyroot Aerospace (Hyderabad).
- Mission: The satellites were launched as part of SpaceX’s Transporter-12 mission from Cape Canaveral, Florida.
- Dhruva Space Contribution: Deployed its satellite platform for technology demonstration in low-Earth orbit (LEO).
- Skyroot Aerospace Contribution: Tested advanced payload components aimed at future launch vehicle development.
- Significance:
- Boosts India’s private space ecosystem.
- Enhances global visibility of Indian space startups in satellite technology and launch solutions.
- Supports India’s ambitions in commercial space exploration and satellite-based services.
About Falcon 9 Rocket:
- Developed by SpaceX (USA).
- Partially reusable, two-stage orbital launch vehicle.
- First launch: June 4, 2010.
- First commercial resupply mission to ISS: October 8, 2012.
- First commercial crewed mission to orbit: 2020.
- Holds record as the most-launched American orbital rocket in history.
