Destination guide
About Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre Space Museum
The Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre Space Museum is located at Thumba, the birthplace of India’s early sounding-rocket programme. VSSC records that the museum occupies the former St. Mary Magdalene Church, a building that served as an office and laboratory when the Thumba Equatorial Rocket Launching Station was established.
India’s first sounding-rocket launch from Thumba took place in 1963, giving the site exceptional significance in the history of ISRO. The church was later converted into the Space Museum, where visitors can learn about the growth of the Indian space programme through launch-vehicle models, rocket exhibits, information panels and related displays. VSSC also maintains a Rocket Garden at the site.
Public entry is controlled and may require prior registration or a visitor pass depending on current arrangements. ISRO has published the museum location at approximately 8.53°N, 76.86°E. Thumba falls in Chirayinkeezhu taluk.
At a glance
Quick Summary
VSSC Space Museum at Thumba is a landmark science museum at the birthplace of India’s space programme, housed in the former church used by early rocket scientists and displaying the evolution of ISRO launch technology.
Nammude Keralam Last checked 2026-09-09
