India Unveils Vikram-I: First Private Orbital Rocket Marks New Era in Space Exploration

Historic Unveiling in Hyderabad

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday, November 27, 2025, virtually unveiled Vikram-I, India's first privately developed orbital rocket, at Skyroot Aerospace's Infinity Campus in Hyderabad. This event signifies a pivotal moment for India's rapidly expanding private space sector, positioning the nation as an emerging force in the global satellite launch ecosystem.

Vikram-I: A Leap in Private Space Technology

Named after Vikram Sarabhai, widely regarded as the father of India's space program, the Vikram-I is a four-stage rocket designed to cater to the small satellite market with rapid and cost-effective launch capabilities. The rocket stands 20 meters tall with a diameter of 1.7 meters and generates 1,200 kN of thrust. Constructed with an all-carbon composite body, it is engineered for lightweight strength and efficiency.

Key technological advancements in Vikram-I include:

• 3D-printed liquid engines, which reduce weight by 50 percent and cut production time by 80 percent.
• Ultra-low-shock pneumatic separation systems.
• Advanced avionics for real-time guidance.

The rocket is capable of carrying payloads of up to 350 kg to Low Earth Orbit (LEO) or 260 kg to Sun-Synchronous Orbit (SSO), with specific capacities varying based on mission requirements. Its design emphasizes simplicity, reliability, and a quick turnaround, enabling assembly and launch within 24 to 72 hours from any launch site. Skyroot Aerospace is targeting an early 2026 maiden flight for Vikram-I.

Skyroot Aerospace: Pioneering India's Private Space Frontier

Skyroot Aerospace, founded in July 2018 by former ISRO scientists Pawan Chandana and Naga Bharath Daka, is recognized as India's first private space start-up. The company previously made history in November 2022 with the successful launch of Vikram-S, India's first private sub-orbital rocket.

The newly inaugurated Infinity Campus in Hyderabad is a state-of-the-art facility spanning 200,000 square feet. It is equipped for the design, development, integration, and testing of multiple launch vehicles, with the capacity to manufacture one orbital rocket every month. Skyroot Aerospace has secured approximately $99.8 million across nine funding rounds, underscoring investor confidence in its mission to provide cost-effective space access.

India's Growing Space Ecosystem

Prime Minister Modi emphasized that reforms in the space sector over the past six to seven years have transformed it into an 'open, cooperative, and innovation-driven ecosystem'. He noted that India's private space talent is gaining global recognition, making the country an attractive destination for international investors. The Prime Minister expressed confidence that India is on track to emerge as a global leader in the satellite launch ecosystem.

The government's initiatives, including the establishment of the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre (IN-SPACe) in 2020 to facilitate private companies, and the approval of a ₹1,000 crore venture capital fund for space startups, have fostered significant growth. Currently, over 300 space startups are active in India, contributing to a vibrant and competitive space industry.