In a significant move towards reaching space, Skyroot Aerospace, a major space company in India, conducted a crucial test of Stage-2 for its Vikram-1 rocket on March 27, 2024.
This test, conducted at the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO)’s test site in Sriharikota, marks a pivotal moment as it signifies the first private company in India gearing up to send a rocket into space. Skyroot had previously achieved a milestone with the launch of a smaller rocket, the Vikram-S, in November 2022.
Lasting 85 seconds, the test demonstrated the rocket’s capability to generate substantial power, measuring around 186 kilonewtons (kN) at sea level, with an expected increase to approximately 235kN in the vacuum of space.
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Images of the test conducted in Sriharikota. (Image: Skyroot)
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The test marks a pivotal movement signifying Skyroot as India’s first private company to send a rocket into space. (Image: Skyroot)
The Kalam-250 rocket employs advanced materials and specialized systems for thermal protection, alongside a precision nozzle and control mechanisms to ensure accurate trajectory adjustments. The Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre played a crucial role in providing safety equipment for the test, while Solar Industries in Nagpur supplied the rocket’s fuel.
Prior to this, Skyroot had successfully tested another component, Kalam-100, in June 2021. Stage-2 is instrumental in transitioning the rocket from the Earth’s atmosphere to outer space.
Pawan Chandana, one of the founders of Skyroot Aerospace, expressed, “This marks a significant stride for India’s space industry, showcasing the capability of the private sector in developing powerful rockets. The test results align with our expectations, bringing us closer to the momentous launch of the Vikram-1 rocket.”
Naga Bharath Daka, another key figure at Skyroot, highlighted the importance of the test, stating, “This test validated the effectiveness of our rocket’s controls during firing, a critical achievement in our journey towards space. We remain focused on our goal of launching the Vikram-1 rocket in 2024, supported by our dedicated team and collaborative efforts within the space industry.”