Assam Don Bosco University Set to Launch Northeast’s First Satellite LACHIT-1 on January 12

Guwahati, Jan 10: Assam Don Bosco University (ADBU) is preparing to launch LACHIT-1, the first satellite developed from the Northeast, on January 12. The satellite will be placed into orbit aboard an Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) launch vehicle, marking a significant milestone for the region’s entry into space technology.

The student-led satellite has been developed with academic and technical support as part of a national programme that encourages university participation in space research. Named after Ahom military leader Lachit Borphukan, LACHIT-1 is designed to test communication capabilities using amateur radio frequencies and is expected to support experimental applications in disaster communication and data relay.

The project involved students and faculty from Assam Don Bosco University along with contributions from other institutions in the Northeast, providing hands-on exposure to satellite design, testing, and mission operations. Once deployed, the satellite will be monitored and controlled through a ground station set up at the university campus.

University officials said the mission represents a major step toward strengthening space science education and research in the Northeast and could encourage more region-based institutions to participate in India’s expanding space ecosystem.