Vikram-1
An all-carbon-composite small rocket that can carry about 350 kg to low Earth orbit. It reached orbit on its first flight in July 2026 from Sriharikota, India.
Why it matters
Vikram-1 is the first privately built Indian rocket to reach orbit. It gives India's growing number of satellite startups a privately run domestic launch option for small payloads.
How the technology works
Vikram-1 is a multi-stage rocket with a carbon-composite body, solid-fuel lower stages and a 3D-printed liquid engine on top for final orbit placement. It launches from ISRO's Satish Dhawan Space Centre at Sriharikota and can fly dedicated or rideshare missions.
Sources
Updated Oct 22, 2026 · How we source facts · Suggest a correction