The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) expects to fly its first small rocket with a carrying capacity of about 500-700 kg sometime next year, according to a top official.

"The developmental work for our small rocket that can carry satellites weighing around 500 kg is on. The first flight of the small rocket is expected to happen sometime next year," ISRO Chairman, K Sivan said. He said the small rocket will be launched from the existing rocketport at Sriharikota in Andhra Pradesh. S Rakesh, chairman-cum- managing director of Antrix Corporation, said the low-cost small rocket requires a dedicated launch pad with a simple vertical launch mechanism.