A new chapter in India’s space history is about to unfold. Hyderabad-based Skyroot Aerospace, co-founded by two former ISRO scientists — Pawan Kumar Chandana and Naga Bharath Daka is gearing up to launch India’s first privately built commercial rocket within the next three months.
What began as an idea nurtured in T-Hub, Telangana’s flagship innovation center, has now evolved into one of India’s most ambitious space-tech companies, redefining what’s possible for private aerospace ventures in the country.
From Startup to Space Leader
Skyroot was born with a bold vision to make space travel more accessible and affordable. The company’s journey from a small startup in Hyderabad to a globally recognized aerospace player shows how far India’s innovation ecosystem has come.
The founders, both engineers from ISRO, envisioned a future where India would not just launch rockets but lead the global commercial space race. With that dream in mind, Skyroot began building the Vikram series of rockets, designed for small satellite launches into low-Earth orbit.
Vikram-1: The Rocket That Could Change Everything
The upcoming Vikram-1 launch is not just a technical milestone it’s a symbolic one. Named after Dr. Vikram Sarabhai, the father of India’s space program, the rocket represents the bridge between India’s legacy in space science and its entrepreneurial future.
Built using carbon-composite structures, 3D-printed engines, and advanced propulsion systems, Vikram-1 is designed for agility and efficiency. It can carry multiple small satellites, making it ideal for the rapidly expanding global satellite market.
Skyroot’s engineering team recently completed crucial engine tests, including the Raman-2 and Kalam-1200, and confirmed readiness for the final phase the countdown to launch.
Why This Launch Matters
Until recently, India’s rocket launches were handled entirely by ISRO. Skyroot’s upcoming launch marks a turning point — the moment when private Indian companies step into orbit on their own.
Here’s why it’s important:
- It positions India as a strong competitor in the small-satellite launch market.
- It creates new jobs for engineers and scientists in India’s space sector.
- It highlights Hyderabad as a new aerospace innovation hub.
- It empowers startups to innovate within a government-supported ecosystem.
Skyroot’s success sends a clear message — India’s space ambitions are no longer limited to government programs. Private innovation is now part of the nation’s propulsion system.
Powered by Partnerships and Vision
Skyroot’s growth has attracted some of the world’s most respected investors, including GIC and Temasek. These partnerships have helped the company develop cutting-edge launch technologies and expand its reach internationally.
Its recent collaboration with Exolaunch, a global satellite deployment company, will allow Skyroot to offer end-to-end services — from rocket design to satellite delivery. It’s a powerful example of how Indian startups are scaling up to meet global standards.
Countdown to History
As the team prepares for Vikram-1’s maiden flight, the excitement is palpable. Inside Skyroot’s Hyderabad headquarters, engineers, technicians, and mission specialists — known affectionately as “Rocketmakers” — are testing every component for perfection.
If successful, this will be a defining moment not just for Skyroot, but for India’s entire space-tech ecosystem. It could open doors for dozens of other startups working on propulsion systems, satellite design, and deep-space analytics.
A New Era for India’s Space Industry
Skyroot’s journey reflects a larger transformation in India — one where startups are stepping into industries once reserved for government agencies. This shift toward private innovation in aerospace signals the beginning of India’s commercial space age.
Hyderabad, often known for its IT exports, is now emerging as the epicenter of India’s space innovation. And with Skyroot leading the charge, the city is becoming a key launchpad for the next generation of global aerospace companies.
As Vikram-1 prepares to take off, one thing is certain: India’s space dreams are about to get a lot bigger.
