India marks 50 years since launching Aryabhata, its first homegrown satellite, on April 19, 1975. Built by ISRO and launched from Russia during the Cold War, Aryabhata symbolized India’s bold step into space research. It laid the groundwork for future missions, despite challenges and a short operational life.

BulletsIn

• India’s first satellite Aryabhata launched on April 19, 1975
• Developed by ISRO with a team of just 25 engineers
• Launched using Soviet Kosmos-3M rocket from Russia’s Kapustin Yar
• Named after 5th-century Indian mathematician and astronomer Aryabhata
• Symbolized India’s entry into spacefaring nations
• Despite early power failure, remained in orbit for years
• Focused on X-ray astronomy, solar physics, ionosphere studies
• Generated 46 watts using solar panels spread over 36,800 sq. cm
• arked a leap in indigenous tech, inspired later missions like Chandrayaan, Mangalyaan
• Featured on India’s ₹2 note; a symbol of national pride