Startup Originals Team
In a watershed moment for India’s private space sector, Hyderabad-based startup Skyroot Aerospace has successfully conducted the first static test of its powerful KALAM 1200 solid rocket motor-laying the groundwork for the much-anticipated maiden flight of the Vikram-1 orbital launch vehicle later this year. This achievement cements Skyroot’s position at the forefront of India’s rapidly advancing commercial space industry and signifies a new era of public–private collaboration in space technology.
KALAM 1200: India’s Longest Monolithic Solid Rocket Motor
The KALAM 1200 motor, named after the legendary scientist Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam, serves as the first stage of the Vikram-1 rocket. Measuring an impressive 11m in length and 1.7m in diameter, this monolithic composite motor carries 30tonnes of solid propellant-making it the largest and longest solid-fuel rocket motor ever built by an Indian private company.
The static test, conducted at ISRO’s Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC) in Sriharikota, validated the booster’s ability to deliver high thrust-up to 1,200kN in vacuum, or nearly 10 times the force of a Boeing 737 Max engine. For approximately 110 seconds, engineers observed consistent thrust within predicted ranges while rigorously checking parameters like burn rate, ballistic efficiency, and thermal protection systems.
Precision Engineering and Advanced Technology
The KALAM 1200 is crafted from advanced carbon composite materials, giving it exceptional strength-to-weight ratio and enabling lightweight, high-thrust performance. The rocket’s first stage includes a composite flex-nozzle steering system, which functions as the vehicle’s main guidance mechanism during launch. ISRO experts also designed and provided the specialized test stand used in this trial, underscoring public–private cooperation.
Vikram-1: India’s First Privately-Built Orbital Rocket
Vikram-1 is a three-stage, small-lift launch vehicle developed to provide on-demand and customized launch services for global small satellite operators. Once launched, Vikram-1 will mark a historic milestone as the first Indian private rocket to reach orbit.
- Payload Capacity: Up to 480kg to low Earth orbit, or 290kg to sun-synchronous polar orbit.
- Advanced Features: Lightweight structure, modular design, state-of-the-art launch computers, and high-performance composite motors throughout its stages.
- Mission Aim: To make satellite launches more accessible, reliable, and flexible for both domestic and international customers.
A New Era of Public-Private Collaboration:
The successful KALAM 1200 test is a direct outcome of the Government of India’s Space Policy 2023, which encourages private companies to leverage ISRO’s advanced infrastructure, technical expertise, and managerial guidance. It’s a vivid example of how India’s space ambitions are now powered by innovative public–private ecosystems.
Looking Ahead: First Orbital Launch on the Horizon
With this critical first-stage test completed, Skyroot Aerospace is on track for Vikram-1’s inaugural flight, expected by the end of this year. The milestone not only marks a new phase for Skyroot but also positions India among leaders in the global commercial launch marketplace.
“Witnessing KALAM 1200 come to life during the test was a thrilling yet humbling moment,” said Pawan Kumar Chandana, Co-founder and CEO of Skyroot. “This achievement reflects years of dedicated engineering from our talented team and marks a transformational step for the private Indian space industry.”
Conclusion: Ushering In a New Age of Indian Space Innovation
Skyroot Aerospace’s successful test of the KALAM 1200 motor signals the dawn of cost-effective, rapid, and homegrown launch solutions for the world’s growing small satellite market. As Vikram-1 readies for its orbital debut, India’s vision of being a global commercial space powerhouse is now closer than ever.
