India’s inaugural privately developed orbital rocket, Vikram-1, is poised for its inaugural test flight on July 18 at 11:30 AM from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre located in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh. This rocket, created by Skyroot Aerospace based in Hyderabad, marks a significant milestone as it aims to place satellites into orbit using a privately developed launch vehicle, separate from government-operated programmes.

The Vikram-1 stands at 24 metres tall and employs a robust design featuring a lightweight carbon-composite structure. Its propulsion system consists of three solid fuel stages alongside a liquid orbital adjustment module. The mission is structured to deploy payloads weighing up to 350 kg into a Low Earth Orbit (LEO) at an altitude of 450 km, with an inclination of 60 degrees.

One of the significant payloads onboard is a lab-grown “Diamond Lotus,” which has been developed by Bengaluru-based Cosmos Diamonds. This launch reflects not only technological advancements in India’s space mission undertakings but also the evolving role of private firms in a historically government-dominated sector.

Growth of India’s Private Space Sector

Rajesh Jothi, the Technical Director at IN-SPACe, remarked on the dramatic evolution of India’s private space sector since 2020 reforms. He noted that the number of startup companies in this field has grown from approximately five or six to over 400 in just a few years. This rapid expansion has occurred following the introduction of space sector reforms and the formation of IN-SPACe in 2022, aimed at fostering a more inclusive space ecosystem.

Jothi acknowledged that the success of the Vikram-1 mission could significantly enhance India’s capabilities in commercial satellite launches. He highlighted that India will join a select group of countries capable of offering such small satellite launch vehicles if the mission proves successful.

Skyroot Aerospace’s COO, Naga Bharath Daka, also shared insights, stating that the company was established with a mission to provide affordable and reliable launch services from India targeting global satellite operators. He noted that the culmination of years of work by the team is materialising into a historic achievement with Vikram-1.

Innovative Technology and Design Features

The Vikram-1 rocket is notable for its advanced engineering, as it incorporates several pioneering technologies. Daka elaborated on the innovative aspects of the rocket, including its three-stage orientation, which involves solid propulsion and an orbital adjustment module capable of deploying multiple satellites simultaneously.

This rocket is among the first in India to be constructed entirely from carbon-composite materials, purportedly making it both lighter and more efficient compared to traditional rockets. Chandana, the CEO of Skyroot Aerospace, reiterated that carbon fibre offers significant advantages, being five times lighter than the strongest steel, thereby contributing positively to the vehicle’s overall performance.

Additionally, the use of 3D-printed engines represents a significant leap in manufacturing technology, allowing for rapid production and a reduction in the number of components required for each engine. This advancement is anticipated to streamline processes considerably, promoting greater efficiency in future missions.

Chandana concluded by emphasising that Vikram-1’s successful flight would be a landmark in India’s commercial space journey, transforming the landscape of satellite launches and setting a new benchmark for the industry. As preparations continue for the launch, the entire country watches with keen interest to witness this ambitious venture unfold.

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