Table of Contents
Relevance: TGPSC: Science and Technology, Hyderabad-based Innovation Ecosystem
For Prelims:
- Vikram-1, Skyroot Aerospace, SCOPE, SOLARAS, CubeSat, robotic arm, space debris removal
For Mains:
- Private space sector, technology demonstration, commercial space missions, in-orbit servicing, orbital sustainability
Why in News?
Hyderabad-based Skyroot Aerospace announced that Vikram-1, India’s first private orbital vehicle, will carry multiple technology demonstration payloads during its flight.The payloads include SCOPE, Skyroot’s in-house payload; SOLARAS, a CubeSat by Grahaa Space; Embrace, a robotic arm by Cosmoserve Space; in-orbit demonstration payloads by Germany-based Dcubed GmbH; and symbolic artistic payloads honouring India’s scientific legacy.
What is Vikram-1?
- Vikram-1 is Skyroot Aerospace’s private orbital launch vehicle. It is named after Dr Vikram Sarabhai, the father of India’s space programme.
- The rocket represents an important step in India’s private space journey, where start-ups are moving beyond component manufacturing into launch vehicles, payload integration and technology demonstration missions.
Payloads on Vikram-1
Vikram-1 will carry a combination of scientific, technological, commercial and symbolic payloads.
SCOPE by Skyroot Aerospace
- SCOPE is Skyroot’s own in-house payload. It is designed to validate onboard spacecraft systems and mission technologies during the Vikram-1 flight.
SOLARAS by Grahaa Space
- SOLARAS is a 1U CubeSat developed by Karnataka-based Grahaa Space. It will demonstrate indigenous satellite technology in orbit.
Embrace Robotic Arm by Cosmoserve Space
- Embrace is a robotic arm developed by Cosmoserve Space. It will remain attached to Vikram-1’s payload deck during its demonstration.
- The technology is linked with future applications such as space debris removal, in-orbit servicing and orbital sustainability.
uD3PP and mD3RN by Dcubed GmbH
- These are in-orbit demonstration payloads developed by Germany-based Dcubed GmbH. They are meant to validate space technologies under orbital conditions.
Scientific Tribute and Symbolic Payloads
Vikram-1 will also carry payloads that combine creativity, heritage and national pride.
Cosmic Bloom
Cosmic Bloom, developed by Cosmos Diamonds, carries diamond jewellery mounted on an aluminium base plate.
Microart Tribute
Skyroot will carry an 18K gold rocket model containing micro-sculptures of three renowned Indian scientists:
- Sir C.V. Raman
- Dr Vikram Sarabhai
- Dr A.P.J. Abdul Kalam
Each micro-sculpture measures around 700 × 980 microns, making it smaller than a grain of rice and small enough to fit in the eye of a needle.
The artwork is credited to Telangana-based artist Ajay Kumar Mattewada.
Conclusion
Vikram-1 brings together private launch technology, start-up innovation, international payload collaboration and India’s scientific heritage.
By carrying payloads such as SCOPE, SOLARAS, Embrace, Dcubed demonstrations, Cosmic Bloom and Microart, the mission reflects the growing maturity of India’s private space ecosystem.
If successful, Vikram-1 will strengthen India’s position in the emerging commercial space economy and mark a major milestone for private orbital launch capability.
CARE MCQ
Q. Recently in news, Microart payload aboard Vikram-1 carries micro-sculptures of which of the following Indian personalities?
- Sir C.V. Raman
- Dr Vikram Sarabhai
- Dr A.P.J. Abdul Kalam
- Homi J. Bhabha
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 1, 2 and 3 only
C. 2, 3 and 4 only
D. 1, 2, 3 and 4
Answer: B
Explanation
The Microart payload aboard Vikram-1 carries micro-sculptures of three renowned Indian scientists:
- Sir C.V. Raman
- Dr Vikram Sarabhai
- Dr A.P.J. Abdul Kalam
Homi J. Bhabha is not mentioned as part of this Microart payload.
Therefore, 1, 2 and 3 only are correct.
FAQs
1. What is Vikram-1?
Vikram-1 is Skyroot Aerospace’s private orbital launch vehicle.
2. Which company developed Vikram-1?
It is developed by Skyroot Aerospace, a Hyderabad-based space start-up.
3. Who is Vikram-1 named after?
It is named after Dr Vikram Sarabhai.
4. What is SCOPE?
SCOPE is Skyroot’s in-house payload to validate onboard spacecraft systems and mission technologies.
5. What is SOLARAS?
SOLARAS is a 1U CubeSat developed by Grahaa Space.
