India’s First Private Orbital Rocket – Vikram-I Unveiled

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The Prime Minister of India recently unveiled Skyroot Aerospace’s first orbital-class launch vehicle, the Vikram-I Rocket, marking a major milestone in India’s emerging private space sector.This rocket is named after Dr. Vikram Sarabhai, the father of India’s space programme.

About Vikram-I Rocket

• Developed by Skyroot Aerospace, a Hyderabad-based private space start-up.
• It is India’s first privately-built orbital-class rocket capable of launching satellites into Earth orbit.
• Designed to serve the growing small-satellite launch market with rapid, flexible launch capabilities.

Key Features of Vikram-I Rocket

1. High Thrust Performance

• Generates 1,200 kN of thrust.
• Built using an all-carbon composite structure making it lightweight, strong, and fuel-efficient.

2. Rapid Launch Capability

• Designed for 24-hour launch readiness from multiple launch locations.
• Built for quick assembly, simplified operations, and reliability.

3. Four-Stage Configuration

• Four stages total.
• Stages 1–3: Solid-fuelled stages providing the major lift for orbital insertion.
• Stage 4: A hypergolic liquid stage designed for precision manoeuvring and fine orbital adjustments.

Raman Engine Cluster (Stage 4)

• Uses a cluster of four Raman engines.
• Hypergolic in nature: the fuel (MMH) and oxidiser (NTO) ignite instantly on contact, ensuring dependable performance.

4. Payload Capability

• Can deploy:
  • 350 kg into Low Earth Orbit (LEO)
  • 260 kg into Sun-Synchronous Orbit (SSO)
• Optimised for multiple satellite deployment in a single mission.

5. Key Technological Innovations

• 3D-printed engines for cost-effective, lighter, and precision-engineered components.
• Ultra-low shock separation systems for smoother satellite deployment.
• Advanced avionics ensuring real-time navigation, guidance, and control.
• Modular and scalable architecture for different mission profiles.

Significance of Vikram-I

• A major leap for India’s private space sector, complementing ISRO.
• Strengthens India’s position in the global small-satellite launch market.
• Encourages innovation, start-up growth, and cost-effective space access.
• Supports India’s broader goal of becoming a commercial space hub.