Kalamsat-V2 was a pioneering satellite developed by students from Space Kidz India, a Chennai-based organization promoting space education. Launched on 24 January 2019 by ISRO aboard the PSLV-C44 rocket, it became the world’s lightest satellite to be placed in orbit, weighing just 1.26 kg.

Launch Vehicle: PSLV-C44, which was a modified version of ISRO’s workhorse Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV)

Launch Site: Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh

Mission Type: Technology demonstration and amateur radio communication

Development Time: Six days

Cost: ₹12 lakh (1.2 million INR)

To serve as a communication satellite for ham radio transmission (non-commercial wireless communication).

To demonstrate the potential of small satellites for communication and educational purposes.

To test 3D-printed components for space applications.

First satellite to use a PSLV’s fourth stage as an orbital platform – After deploying its main payload (Microsat-R), ISRO kept the fourth stage of PSLV (PS4) in orbit for the first time instead of discarding it. Kalamsat-V2 was attached to this stage and used it as an experimental orbital platform.

It was an improved version of Kalamsat-1, a previous 64g experimental satellite that was launched on a suborbital flight by NASA in 2017.

Named after Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, India’s former President and a renowned aerospace scientist.

The satellite successfully communicated with ground stations, proving that lightweight student-built satellites could function in space.

It showcased low-cost satellite development and amateur radio applications for educational and experimental purposes.

Helped advance ISRO’s PS4 orbital platform experiments, opening doors for more student-built payloads in the future.

Kalamsat-V2 remains a milestone in Indian student satellite missions, inspiring young innovators to explore cost-effective space technology.