India is preparing to launch its first privately developed orbital rocket, Vikram-1, from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre at Sriharikota on July 18 at 11:30 a.m. The flight comes 46 years after the country’s first successful satellite launch vehicle lifted off from the same site in 1980.
Built by Skyroot Aerospace, Vikram-1 is a seven-storey vehicle constructed from an all-carbon composite structure and fitted with propulsion systems developed in-house, including 3D-printed engines and solid-fuel boosters. On its debut mission the rocket will carry small satellites weighing up to 350 kg to a 450 km orbit at 60° inclination. Six technology demonstration payloads, an artwork and a micro-art piece are manifested for the flight.
Launch authorisation has been granted by the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre. Skyroot executives said all ground tests have been completed and the vehicle is fully stacked on the pad. Final integrated checks with telemetry stations and tracking radars have also been finished. The ascent sequence comprises 14 phases and will last 15.46 minutes.
A handwritten postcard from Prime Minister Narendra Modi carrying the words “Vande Mataram” will travel aboard the rocket together with messages from team members, investors and well-wishers.
