Key Highlights of Vikram-1 Mission Aagaman
Overview
On 18 July 2026, Skyroot Aerospace lifted its first orbital rocket from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre. The vehicle placed several technology‑demonstration payloads and a handwritten postcard from Prime Minister Narendra Modi into Low Earth Orbit (LEO). The mission, called Mission Aagaman, marks India’s entry into the exclusive club of nations with private orbital launch capability.
Key Developments
- Launch was delayed from 11:30 a.m. to 12:05 p.m. after a brief automated hold; the ALS was restarted and the rocket lifted off successfully.
- Six technology‑demonstration payloads from Grahaa Space, Cosmoserve, DCubed (Germany) and Skyroot’s own SCOPE were placed in a 450‑km, 60° inclined orbit.
- The mission received launch authorisation from IN‑SPACe, confirming compliance with India’s private‑sector space policy.
- Vikram‑1 is built with an all‑carbon‑composite structure and features a 3D‑printed engine, the first of its kind on an Indian orbital vehicle.
Important Facts
- Height: 22 m; Diameter: 1.7 m.
- Payload capacity: up to 350 kg to LEO.
- Configuration: three solid stages plus a liquid Orbital Adjustment Module.
- Flight sequence comprised 14 phases la