India’s first rocket launch from Kulasekarapattinam spaceport likely in March–April 2027: ISRO Chief
India is expected to conduct the first rocket launch from its newly developed spaceport at Kulasekarapattinam in Tamil Nadu in March or April 2027, ISRO Chairman V. Narayanan has announced.
The announcement marks an important milestone in the development of India's second spaceport. Located in Thoothukudi district, the Kulasekarapattinam facility is being developed to support the country's growing launch requirements, particularly for Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV) missions.
The new spaceport is expected to provide operational advantages for launching smaller satellites into polar orbits. Its geographical location allows rockets to follow a more direct southward trajectory over the sea, reducing the need for manoeuvres to avoid land areas and improving launch efficiency.
The facility is strategically important as India seeks to increase its capacity in the rapidly expanding small satellite launch market. It is also expected to complement the existing Satish Dhawan Space Centre at Sriharikota, which remains the country's principal launch facility.
The first launch from Kulasekarapattinam will be a significant step in strengthening India's space infrastructure and supporting ISRO's future launch programmes.
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