Prelims: Current events of national and international importance | Science and Technology
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Recently, Hyderabad‑based Skyroot Aerospace successfully launched Vikram‑1, India’s first privately built orbital rocket, under Mission Aagaman.
- Launched at – Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota.
- Design – Four‑stage launch vehicle (first three stages use solid fuel; fourth stage uses liquid fuel).
- Capacity – Payload: 290 kg to 500‑km sun‑synchronous orbit (SSO); 480 kg to low‑inclination orbit at similar altitude.
- Mission Aagaman – The historic maiden orbital launch of Vikram-1, India's first privately developed launch vehicle.
- Orbit Insertion – Hardest part; required high acceleration with precise guidance.
- Production – Skyroot aims to streamline manufacturing to produce one Vikram‑1 per month.
- Vikram‑2 – Planned for 2027, capable of carrying up to 1,000 kg to low‑earth orbit.
Reference
The Hindu | Vikram