Skyroot Aerospace: India’s Leading Private Rocket Company

Skyroot Aerospace: Pioneering India’s Private Space Era

Skyroot Aerospace is a Hyderabad-based private aerospace startup founded in June 2018 by former ISRO engineers Pawan Kumar Chandana (CEO/CTO) and Naga Bharath Daka (COO). The company focuses on designing and launching small-lift launch vehicles for the burgeoning small satellite market :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}.

Mission & Vision

Skyroot’s goal is to make space accessible, reliable, and affordable for Indian and international satellite operators. Its flagship product line is the modular Vikram series—named in tribute to the Indian space pioneer Vikram Sarabhai.

Milestone 1: Vikram‑S (Suborbital Demonstrator)

On 18 November 2022, Skyroot made history with Vikram‑S, launching India's first privately built rocket during "Mission Prarambh". The 6 m carbon-fiber suborbital rocket soared to ~89.5 km before splashing down in the Bay of Bengal—demonstrating critical technologies for the larger Vikram‑1 vehicle :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}.

Building the Orbital Launcher: Vikram‑1

Skyroot is targeting its first orbital launch of Vikram‑1 in 2025, aiming to deploy up to 300 kg into low Earth orbit using a three‑stage solid system with 3D‑printed engines and carbon-composite structures :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}.

In May 2025, the company successfully tested Vikram‑1’s stage‑separation system, ensuring smooth, shock‑free stage releases in space—an essential step ahead of its debut launch » :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}.

Advanced Propulsion: Kalam & Raman Engines

Skyroot has developed solid propulsion systems known as “Kalam” (Kalam-80, Kalam-100, Kalam-1200) and the liquid-propellant “Raman” engine (clustered thrusters for orbital maneuvering) — both featuring advanced carbon-fibre, 3D‑printed technology :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}.

Global Collaboration & Facilities

In January 2025, Skyroot opened India's first private integrated rocket development facility near Hyderabad’s airport, marking a leap in domestic capabilities for design, manufacturing, and testing :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}.

In June 2025, Skyroot signed an MoU with US-based Axiom Space to collaborate on access to low Earth orbit and future exploration missions, highlighting its growing international reach :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}.

Impact & Future Outlook

Having raised over ₹526 crore (≈$70 m) and being the largest funded Private Space Startup in India, Skyroot is unlocking the potential of the country’s space reforms and emerging as a global competitor in small‑satellite launch services :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}.

Its next target: make Vikram‑1 operational in 2025, followed by Vikram‑II and III—potentially reusable and capable of multi‑orbit insertion, propelling India to a leading role in commercial small launch vehicles.

Conclusion

Skyroot Aerospace stands at the forefront of India’s private space revolution, blending cutting‑edge composite engineering, rapid prototyping, and strategic international partnerships. As it moves toward orbital launch, the company is poised to transform India’s role in the global space economy.

Top Space Companies in India: Driving the Nation’s Space Revolution

India has emerged as a powerful force in the global space industry. From successful moon missions to satellite launches for other nations, the country’s space journey has been both inspiring and transformative. While ISRO has led this progress, recent reforms have opened the door for private companies to contribute to India’s growing space economy.

1. Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO)

ISRO is India's national space agency, established in 1969. It is known for affordable and successful missions, such as Chandrayaan, Mangalyaan, and the PSLV series. ISRO has played a key role in launching satellites for both domestic and international clients, developing remote sensing, navigation, and communication systems.

2. NewSpace India Limited (NSIL)

NSIL is the commercial arm of ISRO. It handles satellite launches, transponder leasing, and technology transfer. NSIL plays a vital role in bringing ISRO’s services to global markets, helping generate revenue through commercial satellite launches and partnerships.

3. IN-SPACe

The Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Center (IN-SPACe) was established to promote and regulate private space companies in India. It acts as a bridge between ISRO and the private sector, facilitating collaboration and innovation.

4. Skyroot Aerospace

Skyroot is a Hyderabad-based private space startup. It became the first Indian private company to successfully launch a rocket, named Vikram-S, in 2022. Skyroot focuses on affordable satellite launch vehicles and reusable rocket technology for small satellite missions.

5. Agnikul Cosmos

Agnikul is a Chennai-based aerospace company that is developing the Agnibaan launch vehicle. It uses 3D-printed engines and aims to offer customizable, on-demand satellite launches. Agnikul is working closely with ISRO and IN-SPACe for launch support and integration.

6. Pixxel

Pixxel is a Bengaluru-based space-tech startup focused on building a constellation of Earth imaging satellites. Its hyperspectral imaging technology helps in environmental monitoring, agriculture, and disaster response. Pixxel has attracted global attention for its innovation.

7. Bellatrix Aerospace

Bellatrix specializes in in-space propulsion systems and aims to make satellite movement more efficient. The company is also working on eco-friendly propulsion technologies and small satellite platforms.

Conclusion

India’s space sector is expanding rapidly with the collaboration of government agencies and innovative private players. These companies are not only contributing to national development but are also competing globally. With continued support and investment, India is on track to become a leading player in the global space economy.