India's First Private Orbital Rocket, Skyroot's Vikram-1, Set For July 18 Launch

Skyroot Aerospace is set to launch the maiden test flight of its Vikram-1 rocket from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota, on July 18 at 11:30 am. The mission, named Aagaman, will mark the first attempt by a privately developed orbital-class rocket to launch from Indian soil. Designed to carry small satellites into Low Earth Orbit, Vikram-1 is powered by indigenous propulsion systems, including 3D-printed engines and solid-fuel boosters. The rocket will carry multiple technology demonstration payloads and artwork on its inaugural mission. Skyroot said all stages have been integrated and final launch pad checks completed. The company described the mission as a major milestone for India's growing private space sector.