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Dhruva Space to Launch First Commercial Satellite Aboard SpaceX Falcon 9 under LEAP-1 Mission in August 2025.

Science and Technology | Dated: 06 Aug 2025

On August 4, 2025, Hyderabad-based Dhruva Space will launch its first-ever commercial satellite mission, titled LEAP-1 (Launching Expeditions for Aspiring Payloads-1), using SpaceX’s (Space Exploration Technologies Corporation) Falcon 9 rocket. The mission will carry two international payloads—Nexus-01 and OTR-2 (Orbital Test Ring-2)—and marks a milestone in India’s private space sector advancement.

🎯 Key Highlights:

  • - Dhruva Space's LEAP-1 mission will utilize the P-30 (Platform-30) satellite platform to carry international payloads onboard the Falcon 9 rocket.
  • - This platform, which earlier flew on ISRO’s (Indian Space Research Organisation) PSLV-C58 (Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle-C58) mission in January 2025, can accommodate payloads of 10–15 kg and supports diverse remote sensing and Earth observation functions.
  • - The mission includes two foreign payloads: Nexus-01 by Akula Tech and OTR-2 by Esper Satellites. Nexus-01 is an advanced on-orbit AI/ML (Artificial Intelligence / Machine Learning) based payload for fire detection, anomaly detection, and spectral analysis. OTR-2, a hyperspectral imager, will deliver high-resolution Earth observation data using its ability to provide detailed spectral imaging.

💡 Other Important Facts:

  • (i) The operations and data management of the mission will be conducted through Dhruva Space’s ISOCS (Integrated Space Operations and Command Suite). The GSaaS (Ground Station-as-a-Service) platform will support real-time payload control, uplink, and downlink mission operations to ensure smooth coordination from launch to data collection.
  • (ii) The LEAP-1 mission features international collaborations between India, Australia, and the United States. It is designed to enhance global access to satellite services and will showcase Dhruva Space's capabilities in artificial intelligence (AI)-driven satellite functions and remote sensing applications across geographies.
  • (iii) This mission signifies India’s growing role in the global private space launch ecosystem. Dhruva Space, through this commercial debut, will provide scalable infrastructure and satellite platforms to support small payload launches and expand satellite accessibility for industries, academia, and government research agencies.

📚 Test Your Knowledge:

Which Hyderabad-based company will launch its first commercial satellite mission aboard SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket in August 2025?

Correct Answer: Dhruva Space

🚀 Quick Recap:

About Dhruva Space

  • CEO : Sanjay Srikanth Nekkanti
  • Headquarters : Hyderabad, Telangana