Prime Minister Modi Unveils India’s First Private Rocket Vikram-I
India's first private space rocket, Vikram-I, has been developed by Hyderabad-based private space company Skyroot Aerospace. Prime Minister Narendra Modi unveiled the rocket, which is designed to deliver small satellites to orbit quickly, affordably, and accurately. The 20-meter tall orbital-class rocket is equipped with advanced technology and 3D-printed engines.
Vikram-I is India’s first privately developed orbital-class rocket. The rocket, named after Dr. Vikram Sarabhai, the father of India’s space program, has the capability to deploy multiple small satellites in a single mission. It supports dedicated launches, rideshare missions, and multi-orbit satellite deployments.
The Vikram-I rocket features a fully carbon-fiber composite structure and a four-stage propulsion system:
- Stage 1 (Kalam-1200): A 10-meter solid-fuel rocket with 120 tons of thrust.
- Stage 2 (Kalam-250): A solid motor for medium altitude propulsion.
- Stage 3: Another solid-fuel stage to assist in reaching orbit.
- Stage 4: Four restartable Raman hypergolic engines providing precise orbit control.
The rocket is equipped with 3D-printed engines, advanced avionics, and an ultra-low shock deployment system. Vikram-I can carry payloads of approximately 300–350 kg to Low Earth Orbit (LEO), with specific capacities for different orbits:
- 500 km SSO: Approximately 290 kg
- 500 km LEO (45° inclination): Approximately 480 kg
The launch of Vikram-I marks the beginning of a new era for India's private space sector. Following space reforms by Prime Minister Modi, this area is now open to private companies, which will enhance India’s participation in the global space economy.