• Source:JND
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Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday, November 27, inaugurated Skyroot Aerospace’s Infinity Campus in Hyderabad and virtually unveiled Vikram-I, the company’s first orbital rocket and India’s first privately developed commercial rocket capable of placing satellites into orbit.

PM Modi said the inauguration of Vikram-I and Skyroot Aerospace’s Infinity Campus marks a significant step for India’s space sector. Speaking at the launch, PM Modi said, “The innovation, risk-taking ability, and entrepreneurship of our young generation are reaching new heights… In the times to come, India will emerge as a global leader in the satellite launch ecosystem.”

Skyroot Aerospace

Skyroot Aerospace, India’s first private space start-up, made history by launching a rocket from ISRO’s Sriharikota facility, just three years after the space sector opened to private entrepreneurs. The company is headed by two IIT alumni, Pawan Chandana and Naga Bharat Daka.

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In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Skyroot said, “A historic moment unfolds, the portal to Infinity is opening. We are honoured to have the Hon’ble Prime Minister @narendramodi inaugurate India’s Largest Private Rocket Factory and unveil India’s First Private Commercial Rocket.”

What Is Vikram-I?

Vikram-I, designed to place satellites into orbit, is named after Vikram Sarabhai, the father of India’s space programme. Built for the small-satellite segment, the rocket can place multiple satellites in a single mission, News18 reported.

Features Of Vikram-I

- Vikram-I stands 20 metres tall with a diameter of 1.7 metres and generates 1,200 kN of thrust.

- Built with an all-carbon composite body to keep it lightweight, the rocket is designed to carry around 300 kg into low Earth orbit.

ALSO READ: PM Modi Inaugurates Skyroot's Infinity Campus In Hyderabad, Unveils India's First Private Orbital Rocket Vikram-I

- According to Skyroot Aerospace, depending on the mission requirements, Vikram-I can lift 350 kg to low Earth orbit, 260 kg to a sun-synchronous orbit, 290 kg to a 500 km sun-synchronous orbit, or 480 kg to a 500 km low Earth orbit at a 45-degree inclination.

- One of the standout features of Vikram-I is that it can be assembled and launched within 24 to 72 hours from any launch site, enabling rapid turnaround.

- The rocket can place multiple satellites in a single mission, and its restartable orbital adjustment module enables satellites to be placed into different orbits during the same mission.

- Vikram-I features several advanced technologies, including 3D-printed liquid engines that cut weight by 50 per cent and reduce production time by 80 per cent.

- The rocket uses ultra-low-shock pneumatic separation systems and advanced avionics for real-time guidance.

- According to a News18 report, Skyroot Aerospace has completed key tests, such as the Kalam-1200 proof pressure test and payload fairing separation, demonstrating the readiness of its critical systems.

Vikram-I Maiden Flight Slated For Early 2026

Skyroot Aerospace is targeting early 2026 for the maiden flight of Vikram-I. According to the company, the rocket is designed for dedicated launches, rideshare missions, and deploying satellites into multiple orbits during a single mission.

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