All you need to know about Vikram-1, India’s first privately developed orbital-class rocket

Vikram-1, the country’s first privately developed orbital-class rocket, is set to lift off from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota on Saturday (July 18, 2026) at 11.30 a.m. The launch is expected to mark the entry of Indian private space technology companies into the global launch services market.

Developed by Hyderabad-based space launch company Skyroot Aerospace, Vikram-1 has secured all the necessary clearances for its maiden mission, named Mission Aagaman.

This will be the first attempt by a private company in India to launch an orbital-class rocket. The relevant authorities have issued the required airspace and maritime notices, designating restricted zones along the vehicle’s ascent and impact corridor for launch day.

Vikram-1 is designed to carry small satellites weighing up to 350 kg to Low Earth Orbit (LEO). Its inaugural flight will target a 450-km orbit with an inclination of 60 degrees.