New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has extended his best wishes to Skyroot Aerospace ahead of the launch of Vikram-1, India’s first privately developed orbital rocket, describing the mission as a historic milestone in the country’s space journey.
In a post on social media platform X, the Prime Minister said, “A historic new frontier for India’s space journey! At 11:30 AM today, Skyroot Aerospace will undertake the maiden orbital launch of Vikram-1, India’s first privately developed launch vehicle.
“This four-stage rocket is designed to provide rapid and on-demand launch services. This mission highlights the talent, determination and entrepreneurial spirit of our youth. It also shows how our space-sector reforms are unlocking new opportunities for innovation and enterprise.”
Extending wishes PM Modi wrote: “My best wishes to the entire Skyroot Aerospace team for a successful launch. May Vikram-1 soar high, create history and inspire a generation of innovators.
“I urge all Indians, especially my young friends, to follow this historic mission and join in wishing Team Skyroot success using #IndiaWithVikram1.”
Hyderabad-based space startup Skyroot Aerospace is set to create history on Saturday with the launch of its first orbital launch vehicle, Vikram-1, marking a major milestone for India’s rapidly expanding private space sector.
The rocket is named after Vikram Sarabhai, who is called the father of India’s space programme.
The mission, named ‘Mission Aagaman’, is scheduled for lift-off at 11:30 A.M. from the First Launch Pad at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC-SHAR) in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh.
The test flight of Vikram-1 is expected to mark India’s entry into the global private orbital launch market. Developed entirely by a private Indian company, Vikram-1 is the country’s first privately built orbital launch vehicle and represents a significant step towards strengthening India’s commercial space capabilities.
Ahead of the launch, Skyroot Aerospace said all necessary airspace and maritime clearances have been secured. Authorities have also notified restricted airspace and maritime zones along the rocket’s flight path and impact corridor to facilitate the mission.
‘Mission Aagaman’ will be Skyroot’s second space mission after the successful launch of the Vikram-S suborbital rocket on November 18, 2022, which became the first privately built rocket to reach space from Indian soil.
Adding a symbolic touch to the landmark mission, Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s handwritten postcard bearing the words “Vande Mataram” will travel to space aboard Vikram-1. Skyroot Aerospace said the Prime Minister’s handwritten message will be among several special payloads carried on the test flight.
The company said the mission will also carry handwritten notes from members of the Skyroot team, investors, policymakers and well-wishers from across the world. Describing the initiative as “a celebration carried by many hands and shared by millions,” Skyroot said the keepsakes represent the collective support and aspirations behind India’s emerging private space ecosystem.
(IANS)
