Pawan Kumar Chandana’s remarkable story began with an unexpected academic performance, scoring only 51 marks in mathematics. Despite this early setback, he cultivated a deep curiosity and passion for machines, motivating him to pursue a career in engineering. Growing up in a middle-class family in Hyderabad, his father played a vital role in encouraging him to stay focused on his aspirations during challenging times.

Chandana’s initial struggles with subjects like mathematics transformed over time, as he gradually became genuinely interested in science and technology. His hard work paid off when he successfully cleared the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) entrance examination on his first attempt, gaining admission to IIT Kharagpur. What many would consider a pinnacle achievement was just the beginning of his determined pursuit in the field of aerospace.

While his peers often opted for lucrative roles in the tech industry, Chandana’s passion was firmly anchored in space exploration and rocket technology. This unwavering focus led him to the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), where he was recruited directly from campus, providing him with the chance to contribute to India’s ambitious space initiatives.

Contributions at ISRO and the Birth of Skyroot Aerospace

During his tenure at ISRO, Chandana worked on the GSLV Mk III, India’s heaviest launch vehicle, earning recognition through an internal innovation award. His six-year journey at the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre in Thiruvananthapuram allowed him to gain vital experience in rocket design and development, while also witnessing the evolution of India’s space aspirations.

As the Indian startup landscape began to flourish, Chandana wondered about the potential for private sector involvement in rocket manufacturing and space technology. This curiosity eventually led him to co-found Skyroot Aerospace in June 2018, alongside fellow IIT Bombay alumnus Naga Bharath Daka. The duo aimed to revolutionise India’s space economy by venturing beyond traditional governmental frameworks.

Skyroot faced initial challenges securing funding as investors were cautious about the nascent industry. However, support arrived from notable figures, including Binny Bansal, co-founder of Flipkart, who invested $1.5 million into the startup. Despite the challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic, Skyroot persevered, with Greenko providing critical financial backing at a crucial juncture.

Achievements and Future Aspirations

Skyroot Aerospace marked significant milestones in its journey, commencing with the successful test of the Raman-1 rocket engine in July 2020, the first conducted by a private Indian firm. Following the government’s move to allow private participation, Skyroot became the first such company to sign a memorandum of understanding with ISRO, further solidifying its position within the industry and securing $51 million in investments.

Chandana has consistently emphasised fundamental principles over mere financial success, articulating his belief that entrepreneurship fosters independence and the potential for job creation. By November 18, 2022, Skyroot launched Vikram-S, marking the first privately developed suborbital rocket in India, which symbolised a pivotal advancement for both the company and the domestic private space sector.

Recent achievements include the inauguration of a state-of-the-art private rocket manufacturing facility on May 7, which is now considered the largest of its kind in India. The launch event was attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, highlighting the government’s support for private space initiatives. Skyroot has since expanded its workforce to around 1,000 employees, signifying its growth and potential to shape the future of India’s space exploration endeavors.

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