Skyroot Aerospace: Pioneering India's Private Spaceflight Revolution

About Skyroot Aerospace

As the global space industry undergoes rapid privatization, India is emerging as a strong contender with its growing commercial space sector. Skyroot Aerospace, a Hyderabad-based startup, is at the forefront of this transformation, developing cost-effective and reusable launch vehicles to make space more accessible.

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Meet the Founders: Pawan Kumar Chandana & Naga Bharath Daka

Skyroot Aerospace was founded in 2018 by Pawan Kumar Chandana and Naga Bharath Daka, both former scientists at ISRO. Their experience working on India’s most ambitious space missions gave them the technical expertise and vision to create a private launch solutions company capable of competing on a global scale.

Pawan, an aerospace engineer, played a critical role in developing ISRO’s GSLV Mk-III rocket, while Bharath specialized in avionics and navigation systems. Their combined expertise has propelled Skyroot into becoming a leader in India’s NewSpace movement.

The Need for Private Launch Services

With the rise of small satellites, commercial space applications, and deep-space exploration, the demand for affordable, rapid, and flexible launch options has surged. Traditional government-run launch services can be costly and slow, creating a gap in the market that startups like Skyroot aim to fill.

Skyroot’s Vikram series of launch vehicles provide:

• Cost-effective space access – A fraction of traditional launch costs.
• Quick turnaround – Ready for launch within 24–72 hours.
• Dedicated and rideshare missions – Custom options for commercial and government payloads.
• 100% private manufacturing – India’s first privately developed rocket, independent of ISRO infrastructure.

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Skyroot’s Vikram Series Rockets

Skyroot is developing a range of lightweight, customizable rockets under the Vikram series, named after Dr. Vikram Sarabhai, the father of India’s space program.

• Vikram-S (Test flight in 2022) – India’s first privately built rocket, successfully launched on November 18, 2022.
• Vikram-I (Planned for 2024) – Capable of carrying up to 480 kg to low Earth orbit (LEO).
• Vikram-II & Vikram-III (Future models) – Designed for higher payload capacities and reusable stages.

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Milestones & Achievements

Skyroot has achieved several historic milestones, including:

• First Indian private company to launch a rocket into space.
• Successful test of Kalam-100 engine – India’s largest private solid-fuel rocket motor.
• Collaboration with ISRO for technology transfer and testing facilities.
• Development of 3D-printed rocket engines, reducing production time and costs.

Strategic Partnerships & Collaborations

Skyroot has formed key alliances to strengthen its position in the space industry:

• ISRO – For regulatory approvals, technical collaboration, and access to launch infrastructure.
• Singapore-based Space-tech Firms – Expanding international client base.
• Private Satellite Companies – Providing dedicated launch services to global startups.

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Funding & Growth

Skyroot has raised over $95 million in funding from leading investors, including:

• $27.5 million Pre-Series C (October 2023) – Led by Temasek Holdings.
• $51 million Series B (September 2022) – India’s largest space-tech investment, led by GIC (Government of Singapore Investment Corp).
• $11 million Series A (July 2021) – Led by Greenko Group and other angel investors.

Skyroot is currently valued at over $300 million and is rapidly scaling its operations.

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Challenges & Future Prospects

Despite its rapid success, Skyroot faces challenges such as global competition, regulatory hurdles, and scaling reusable technology. However, with growing interest in low-cost satellite launches, Skyroot is poised to become a key player in the global space economy.

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Future plans include:

• Launching Vikram-I by 2024, offering commercial satellite deployment.
• Developing a reusable rocket stage, reducing launch costs significantly.
• Expanding launch capabilities to interplanetary missions, targeting Moon and Mars payloads.

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Conclusion

Skyroot Aerospace is redefining India's space ambitions, proving that private companies can drive innovation in the aerospace sector. By developing cost-efficient, rapid, and reusable launch vehicles, Skyroot is not only competing with global players like SpaceX and Rocket Lab but also shaping the future of affordable space access.

With continuous technological advancements and strong investor backing, Skyroot Aerospace is set to transform India into a leading hub for private space launches in the coming decade. 

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