Omspace Rocket & Exploration Pvt. Ltd. has successfully launched Gujarat’s first-ever sounding rocket on March 14, 2026, a significant landmark for India’s private space sector. The single-stage, sub-orbital sounding rocket was launched from Bavaliyari village, Gulf of Khambhat, Dholera region, marking a significant step in positioning Gujarat as an emerging hub in space sector innovation. The mission achieved its expected height of approximately 3 kilometres and successfully validated key systems, including propulsion integrity, avionics and autonomous recovery mechanisms. The rocket reached transonic speeds and deployed its dual-parachute system, ensuring a safe landing within the designated safety zone.
This mission, conducted under the authorization of IN-SPACe (Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Centre), demonstrated the effectiveness of Omspace’s indigenously developed technologies. The launch tested a 3D-printed torch igniter and a sugar-based solid propellant motor—both developed in-house. The rocket’s airframe, built using advanced carbon fiber composites, was designed and also manufactured at the company’s Ahmedabad-based R&D facility, reinforcing the vision of ‘Make in India’ initiative.
Omspace launched in 2020, works towards developing Infinity-One, a modular and reusable launch vehicle for Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite missions. A key feature of this rocket will be its capability to relaunch within 24 hours. The company had earlier achieved a major milestone with a successful hot engine fire test in August 2024 at its Sanand facility. Omspace was incubated at CrAdLE, EDII’s Technology Business Incubator, between 2021 and 2023. During this period, the startup received mentoring, networking opportunities and financial support of Rs. 10 lakh under the Startup India Seed Fund Scheme. This support played a crucial role in strengthening its technological and business capabilities. Further strengthening its growth trajectory, the company has raised $3 million in pre-seed funding from investors. Omspace Rocket and Exploration has been awarded as the Best Space Tech Startup by World STEM & Robotics Olympiad (WSRO) and represented India at Dubai Expo 2020 in Space Tech category.
At the launch of Gujarat’s first-ever sounding rocket, Dr. Ravindra Raj, CEO and Founder of Omspace, said, “Today, we didn’t just launch a rocket; we launched Gujarat’s identity in the global space economy. This is the first of many missions that will establish India as the world’s preferred destination for affordable and reliable small satellite launches. I am deeply grateful to the Government of Gujarat, central and state authorities, the coast guard and EDII for supporting us in this critical mission and helping us to turn our dream into reality.”