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Skyroot Ships Vikram-1 to Sriharikota as India’s First Private Orbital Launch Nears

The move signals a shift as private firms step into orbital launches under India’s new space rules.

Overview

  • Vikram-1 flight hardware, which Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy flagged off Saturday, is now en route to the Satish Dhawan Space Centre for on-site integration.
  • Skyroot says Phase 3 of its Integrated Electrical Test is complete, proving the rocket’s avionics and ground software run together as one system under simulated launch conditions.
  • The company expects a launch window within weeks once checks clear, with no date announced, and the mission will proceed under IN-SPACe authorisation with ISRO providing technical oversight.
  • Vikram-1 is a multi-stage small-satellite launcher built from carbon composite with in-house, 3D-printed engines, and it is designed to place about 350 kg into low Earth orbit.
  • Telangana leaders cast the milestone as part of a long-term plan to build an aerospace hub by 2047, with new training programs meant to supply talent for firms like Skyroot.