Hyderabad-based Skyroot Aerospace has successfully test-fired the stage-2 of its Vikram-1 launch vehicle, known as Kalam-250, marking a major step toward its first orbital space launch. This critical test took place at the Sriharikota spaceport, marking a pivotal moment not only for Skyroot but also for the Indian private space sector as a whole.
The Importance of Stage-2 in the Vikram-1 Launch Vehicle
Stage-2 plays a crucial role in the ascent of the Vikram-1 launch vehicle, propelling it from the atmospheric phase into the vast vacuum of outer space. This stage is vital for ensuring the vehicle’s trajectory and overall mission success, underlining the technical complexities involved in modern rocketry. The upcoming Vikram-1 launch is anticipated to be a landmark event for India’s burgeoning private space industry, symbolizing a new era of innovation and capability.
Skyroot’s previous achievements, including the remarkable suborbital launch of India’s first private rocket, Vikram-S, in November 2022, set a strong foundation for this next step. The successful execution of the Kalam-250 test reflects both the progress and the potential of India’s private space initiatives.
Test Highlights and Technical Specifications
The recent test lasted an impressive 85 seconds, during which the Kalam-250 recorded a peak sea-level thrust of 186 kilonewtons (kN). This thrust will translate to a fully expanded vacuum thrust of approximately 235 kN during flight. Such performance is indicative of the engine’s robust design and operational efficiency.
The Kalam-250 is constructed from high-strength carbon composites, representing a modern approach to aerospace engineering. It utilizes solid fuel and incorporates a high-performance thermal protection system made from ethylene-propylene-diene terpolymers. This combination not only enhances the motor’s performance but also ensures resilience under extreme conditions encountered during launch.
Previously, Skyroot had successfully test-fired the Kalam-100, which serves as the third stage of the Vikram-1, in June 2021. These incremental tests are critical in validating the systems and ensuring reliability in the overall launch architecture.
Industry Impact and Future Prospects of Skyroot
Skyroot’s co-founder and CEO, Pawan Chandana, emphasized the significance of this milestone, stating, “This is a significant milestone for the Indian space industry, marking the successful test of the largest propulsion system ever designed and manufactured by the Indian private sector so far, and the first carbon-composite-built motor tested at ISRO.” This achievement not only reflects the company’s technological prowess but also positions it as a leader in India’s private space sector.
Chandana further noted that all test parameters fell within expected ranges, indicating a promising trajectory toward the upcoming orbital launch of the Vikram-1 rocket. This successful test lays the groundwork for a series of additional milestones as Skyroot continues its journey toward operational readiness.
Collaboration with ISRO
The successful execution of the test was bolstered by collaboration with the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), particularly through the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC). In order to ensure the rocket stage operated safely throughout the test, the VSSC supplied its unique head-mounted safe arm. This partnership highlights the collaborative spirit between private entities and established organizations within the Indian space ecosystem.
Naga Bharath Daka, co-founder and COO of Skyroot, underscored the test’s importance, stating, “In this landmark test, we validated the critical system for the launch — the flex nozzle control system — during firing for the first time, making this an important milestone in our journey.” The successful validation of such a critical system further solidifies the company’s readiness for future tests and eventual launches.
Looking Ahead: The Road to Orbital Launch
As Skyroot prepares for the maiden orbital launch of the Vikram-1 in 2024, the company remains focused on achieving several more critical milestones in the coming months. The enthusiasm and commitment demonstrated by the team at Skyroot Aerospace exemplify the growing momentum within India’s private space sector, paving the way for a more competitive and innovative future in space exploration and satellite deployment.
With this successful test, Skyroot Aerospace not only moves closer to its orbital ambitions but also reinforces India’s position on the global space stage, inspiring a new generation of engineers and entrepreneurs in the rapidly evolving aerospace landscape.
