India’s first satellite: 50th anniversary of ‘Aryabhata’ launch

The 50th anniversary of the launch of Aryabhata, India's first satellite, is set to be celebrated on April 19, 2025.

1. Significance of Aryabhata: 

 Aryabhata was India’s first satellite, launched on April 19, 1975. It marked India’s entry into space research and was a major milestone for the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO).

The satellite was named after the ancient Indian mathematician and astronomer Aryabhata.

2. Technical and Historical Aspects: 

 Aryabhata was built by ISRO and launched from the Soviet Union's Kosmos-3M rocket. The satellite was designed to conduct experiments in X-ray astronomy, solar physics, and atmospheric studies.

Though communication was lost after four days, it provided crucial experience for India in satellite design and space technology.