Skyroot Aerospace to launch India's 1st privately built rocket Vikram-1
Technology
Skyroot Aerospace, a Hyderabad-based startup, is about to make history with the launch of Vikram-1, India's first privately built rocket aiming for orbit.
The mission, called Aagaman, lifts off from Sriharikota at 11:30am and marks a huge step for India's private space industry.
Vikram-1 features all-carbon structure 3D-printed engines
Vikram-1 packs some impressive tech: it's built with an all-carbon composite structure, solid rocket boosters, and in-house 3D-printed engines.
It can carry up to 350kg into space and will test out payloads from several companies.
As a cool bonus, it's also taking along PM Modi's handwritten "Vande Mataram" postcard and an artwork called "Cosmic Bloom."