Hyderabad’s Skyroot Likely to Become India’s First Spacetech Unicorn
Table of Contents
Relevance:
TGPSC GR I Paper–V: Science & Technology
Important Keywords
For Prelims:
- Skyroot Aerospace, Vikram-S, Vikram-I, Unicorn, 3D-Printed Engines, Carbon-Fibre Structures, Infinity Campus
For Mains:
- Private Space Sector, Start-up Funding, Low-Cost Launch Vehicles, Satellite Launch Services, Space Commercialisation
Why in News?
- Hyderabad-based Skyroot Aerospace plans to raise about $200 million (₹1,800 crore) in a fresh funding round.
- The company may become India’s first spacetech unicorn.
- Valuation reached $519 million in 2023, up from $163 million a year earlier.
About Skyroot Aerospace
- Founded in 2018 by former ISRO engineers:
- Pawan Kumar Chandana
- Naga Bharath Daka
- Provides on-demand satellite launch services.
- Focuses on low-cost launch vehicles.
Funding & Valuation
- In 2023, Singapore-based investors:
- Temasek
- GIC
invested $27.5 million.
- Appointed Kotak Mahindra Capital to advise on the sale of a minority stake.
- Plans to issue primary shares to new investors.
- No dilution for existing shareholders.
Key Milestones
- 2022: First Indian private firm to launch a rocket into space.
- Mission: Vikram-S (sub-orbital).
- Preparing for Vikram-I orbital launch in 2026.
Technological Features
- Vikram series designed for small satellite launches.
- Incorporates:
- 3D-printed engines
- Carbon-fibre structures
- Operates Infinity Campus, described as India’s first private integrated rocket development facility.
Expansion Plans
- Target: One launch per month by 2027.
- Estimated cost: $4–6 million per launch.
Conclusion
- Skyroot Aerospace reflects the growth of India’s private space ecosystem.
- Successful fundraising could make it India’s first spacetech unicorn, marking a milestone in commercial space development.
CARE MCQ
Q. Consider the following statements regarding Skyroot Aerospace:
- It was founded in 2018 by former ISRO engineers.
- Vikram-S was the first orbital launch of the company.
- The Vikram series incorporates 3D-printed engines and carbon-fibre structures.
How many of the above statements are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Answer: B
Explanation:
Statement 1 – Correct
Skyroot was founded in 2018 by former ISRO engineers Pawan Kumar Chandana and Naga Bharath Daka.
Statement 2 – Incorrect
Vikram-S was a sub-orbital mission. The first orbital launch (Vikram-I) is planned for 2026.
Statement 3 – Correct
The Vikram series incorporates 3D-printed engines and carbon-fibre structures.
