Hyderabad – In a historic development for India’s private space sector, Dr. Jitendra Singh, the Union Minister of State for P.M.O., Space, Science & Tech, and Atomic Energy, unveiled Skyroot Aerospace’s cutting-edge Vikram-1 orbital rocket during a visit to the company’s new headquarters in Hyderabad. This remarkable event signifies another monumental stride for India’s space industry since the government opened its doors to private players in 2020.
The Vikram-1 rocket stands as a technological marvel, a seven-story-high multi-stage launch vehicle with the capacity to carry approximately 300 kilograms to Low Earth Orbit. What sets this rocket apart is its all-carbon-fiber body, designed for optimal performance, and its ability to deploy multiple satellites into orbit. Notably, these satellites will mark India’s entry into the space sector, joining the ranks of a select few globally. The Vikram-1 also boasts state-of-the-art 3D printed liquid engines.
Scheduled for launch in early 2024, Vikram-1 represents Skyroot’s second rocket following the successful launch of the Vikram-S rocket on November 18, 2022, an event graced by Dr. Jitendra Singh himself.
Skyroot Aerospace’s new headquarters, aptly named MAX-Q, is a sprawling, 60,000-square-foot facility that integrates design, manufacturing, and testing for space launch vehicles. The headquarters also serves as a home to Skyroot’s dedicated workforce of 300 members. With future expansion plans in sight, MAX-Q’s design reflects the forward-looking spirit of Skyroot, which aims to democratize space access and propel humanity’s progress.
With the addition of MAX-Q, Skyroot now boasts a total of four facilities, covering a combined built-up area of 100,000 square feet. This accomplishment firmly places Skyroot among the largest private rocket development facilities in the world.
During the unveiling ceremony, Dr. Jitendra Singh remarked, “The success of Skyroot is an inspiration to India’s vast youth talent pool aspiring to set up their own startup ventures, especially in new and emerging sectors, including Space, Biotech, Agriculture, and Energy. PM Modi has enabled India to earn universal recognition for its science, technology, and innovation capabilities, and our startups are much sought after.”
Pawan Chandana, Co-Founder and CEO of Skyroot Aerospace, emphasized the significance of their new headquarters, stating, “Our MAX-Q headquarters serves as a powerful symbol of our unwavering commitment to pushing boundaries and accomplishing the extraordinary, all in pursuit of our mission to Open Space For All. We express our deep gratitude to Dr. Jitendra Singh for gracing this momentous occasion.”
Bharath Daka, Co-Founder and COO of Skyroot, proudly shared, “The unveiling of our Vikram-1 space launch vehicle on the same day as our new headquarters inauguration is a moment of great pride. Our design prowess and cutting-edge home-grown technology have been integral to the creation of Vikram-1. As we eagerly prepare for the early 2024 launch, we will keep sharing further updates on the orbital mission with Vikram-1.”
Skyroot Aerospace’s achievements represent not only a milestone for the company but also a symbol of India’s growing prominence in the global space industry. As they gear up for the Vikram-1 launch, the eyes of the world will undoubtedly be fixed on this dynamic, innovative organization.
