Skyroot Aerospace, an Indian space start-up, successfully launched its orbital rocket, Vikram-I, from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota on July 18, 2026, at 12:05:30 PM, marking a landmark moment for India’s private space sector. This was the first time a private Indian company achieved an orbital launch from Indian soil, with the mission succeeding on its very first attempt. The achievement follows the Government of India’s space-sector reforms that opened the industry to private participation, enabling start-ups to design launch vehicles, satellites, and related space applications.
Vikram-I carried multiple payloads, including the SCOPE and Grahaa satellites, which were placed into Low Earth Orbit, along with additional payloads on the upper stage for in-orbit experiments. The rocket combines solid-fuel stages with a liquid-propellant upper stage powered by the RAMAN-I engine.
ISRO and IN-SPACe supported the mission with testing facilities, technical consultancy, safety oversight, and mission readiness reviews. This successful maiden flight stands as a proud and historic milestone for the nation, paving the way for similar private ventures and opening new doors to global commercial space opportunities.
Image courtesy: Skyroot Aerospace
