Vikram-1 Rocket

Vikram-1 is set to undertake its maiden launch, marking an important milestone for India’s private space sector. It is developed by Skyroot Aerospace and is India’s first privately developed orbital-class rocket.

Key Features

Vikram-1 is a seven-storey-tall, four-stage orbital launch vehicle designed primarily for the small-satellite market. Its first three stages use solid fuel, while the fourth stage uses a cluster of four Raman hypergolic engines for precise orbital insertion.

The fourth stage uses MMH (Monomethylhydrazine) as fuel and NTO (Nitrogen Tetroxide) as oxidiser. These are hypergolic propellants, meaning they ignite automatically when they come into contact, eliminating the need for an external ignition system.

Structure and Technology

The rocket uses an all-carbon-composite structure, making it lightweight while maintaining structural strength. It incorporates indigenously developed propulsion systems, including 3D-printed engines and high-thrust solid-fuel boosters.

Other technological features include ultra-low-shock pneumatic separation systems and advanced avionics for real-time navigation and guidance.

Payload Capacity

Vikram-1 is designed to carry up to 350 kg to Low Earth Orbit (LEO) and approximately 260 kg to Sun-Synchronous Orbit (SSO). It can also deploy multiple small satellites in a single mission, making it suitable for the growing small-satellite launch market.

Significance

The rocket is designed around simplicity, reliability and rapid launch capability, with the objective of enabling launches within 24 hours from any location. Its development strengthens India’s private-sector participation in space, supports the commercial small-satellite launch market, and contributes to the development of indigenous launch-vehicle technology.