GUWAHATI, January 12: In a landmark achievement for science and technology in the region, Lachit-1, the first-ever satellite from Northeast India, was successfully launched into space today.
Marking a historic moment for Assam, the satellite was launched aboard the Indian Space Research Organisation’s (ISRO) trusted workhorse, the PSLV- rocket, from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota. The lift-off occurred precisely at 10:18 a.m., placing Lachit-1 and 15 other co-passenger satellites into a Sun Synchronous Orbit alongside the primary payload, EOS-N1.
What is Lachit-1?
Lachit-1 is a student-led nanosatellite mission spearheaded by Assam Don Bosco University (ADBU). According to official records, no satellite from Northeast India has previously been registered to any institution, making Lachit 1 a pioneering success for the region.+1
The mission was executed in close collaboration with Dhruva Space, a Hyderabad-based space engineering firm. The project involved over 50 students who were mentored through every stage of the satellite’s lifecycle—from design and assembly to integration and testing.+1
Features and Mission Objectives
Named after the legendary Ahom general Lachit Borphukan, the satellite is a fitting tribute to Assam’s history and spirit of innovation. The Lachit-1 mission is designed to operate for approximately 12 months with two primary objectives:
- Environmental Monitoring: Using advanced Internet of Things (IoT) technology, the satellite will monitor critical atmospheric parameters, including temperature, humidity, and pollution levels.
- Disaster Management: It features a “store-and-forward” communication system. This capability allows Lachit-1to relay short messages during emergencies, providing a vital communication link when conventional networks on the ground are disrupted.
A Student-Led Revolution
The university launched its space programme in 2022 using its own funding. To ensure the mission’s success, a dedicated Mission Control Room has been established at ADBU’s Tapesia campus near Guwahati.
Prof. Vikramjit Kakati, the Mission Director of Lachit-1 and Director of ADBU’s Research and Development Cell, highlighted the significance of the project:
“This mission brings together young talent from across the Northeast and demonstrates how satellite-based communication can support disaster response and regional development.”
Future Applications and Training
The impact of Lachit 1 extends beyond its immediate mission. Once fully operational, the satellite will be accessible to the global amateur radio community. ADBU, in partnership with the National Institute of Amateur Radio, plans to conduct training programmes on using amateur satellites for emergency communication, further boosting skill development in the region.
Leadership Praises “Lachit” Tribute
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma conveyed his best wishes on the eve of the launch, expressing pride that the satellite bears the name of Lachit Borphukan. He noted that the achievement reflects the state government’s thrust on promoting science and technology, calling it a historic step for the youth of Assam.
With the successful deployment of Lachit-1, Northeast India has firmly placed itself on the global map of space innovation.
