Skyroot’s Vikram-1 Set to Become India’s First Private Orbital Rocket

India’s private space sector is preparing for a major milestone as Hyderabad-based startup Skyroot Aerospace readies the launch of Vikram-1, the country’s first privately developed orbital rocket. The mission marks a significant step in India’s growing commercial space ecosystem, driven by startups aiming to provide affordable and flexible satellite launch services. Skyroot, founded by former ISRO engineers Pawan Kumar Chandana and Naga Bharath Daka in 2018, seeks to position itself in the niche market of dedicated launches for small satellites.

Vikram-1 and India’s Private Space Push

Vikram-1 is a seven-storey launch vehicle, approximately 75 feet tall, designed to carry satellites weighing up to 300 kg into orbit. The rocket is part of Skyroot’s Vikram series of launch vehicles and is named after Vikram Sarabhai, the father of India’s space programme. The rocket features an all-carbon composite structure and advanced propulsion systems. Its three stages—Kalam-1200, Kalam-250, and Kalam-125—use solid propellants, while the upper orbit adjustment module employs a 3D-printed liquid engine called Raman-2.

The rocket’s components are being integrated and tested at Skyroot’s Max-Q headquarters in Hyderabad. The initial launch is expected from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre at Sriharikota.

Targeting the Niche Dedicated Launch Market

Skyroot Aerospace aims to focus on a specialised segment of the space launch industry: dedicated missions for small satellites. Unlike large launch providers that aggregate multiple payloads into a single mission, Skyroot intends to offer customised launches that place satellites in precise orbits.

The company compares its role to a “space cab” rather than a large transport system. Such services are increasingly sought by satellite operators requiring specific orbital placements for communication, earth observation, or research missions.

Technology and Infrastructure Expansion

Skyroot uses advanced carbon fibre structures and additive manufacturing technologies to improve efficiency and reduce costs. Its Infinity Campus in Hyderabad has been developed to enable the production of one Vikram-class rocket every month once operations scale up.

The startup has also signed partnerships with international and domestic space companies, including satellite launch agreements and collaborations with Indian spacetech startups. These partnerships aim to expand its commercial launch pipeline.

Important Facts for Exams

• Skyroot Aerospace launched Vikram-S, India’s first private sub-orbital rocket, in November 2022.
• Vikram-1 is designed to carry satellites up to 300 kg into low Earth orbit.
• The rocket uses a 3D-printed liquid engine called Raman-2 in its orbit adjustment module.
• India’s private space sector expanded after policy reforms allowing private participation through IN-SPACe.

Future Plans and India’s Commercial Space Ambitions

Skyroot aims to make space access more affordable and frequent by eventually developing larger and reusable launch vehicles. Future missions may also operate from upcoming private launch facilities such as the Kulasekarapattinam spaceport in Tamil Nadu.

Alongside startups like Agnikul Cosmos, Skyroot represents a new generation of Indian spacetech companies seeking to transform the country into a major global hub for small satellite launches.