Archive · 27 Jul 2026
Shadnagar Scientist Key to Vikram-1 Rocket Success
Nikhil Madduri, a scientist from Shadnagar, has been working for the past six years on a special rocket called Vikram-1.
This rocket is the first one made by a private company in India to go into space and place satellites.
Nikhil helped make the software that tells the rocket where it is and how to fly correctly.
He studied at IIT Kharagpur and other places abroad.
Before this, he worked on another important plane called LCA Tejas.
Nikhil also loves painting with acrylics, showing he is good at both science and art.
His work makes his hometown proud and shows what Indians can do in space.
Nikhil Madduri from Shadnagar played a key role in the Vikram-1 rocket's navigation software.
He has been with Skyroot Aerospace for six years, specializing in GNC systems.
The Vikram-1 rocket successfully placed satellites into orbit, a milestone for India's private space sector.
Nikhil is an IIT Kharagpur graduate with dual master’s degrees from European universities.
He previously contributed to the LCA Tejas programme and is also an accomplished artist.
- Who
- Nikhil Madduri, an aerospace scientist from Shadnagar
- What
- Developed navigation software for Skyroot Aerospace’s Vikram-1 rocket
- When
- Past six years, with recent success in November 2022 and current mission
- Where
- Shadnagar, India; Skyroot Aerospace; previously at ADA
- Why
- To contribute to India's private space exploration and inspire local and national pride
Local Pride
National Achievement
Impact on Shadnagar
Local Pride
Nikhil Madduri's success brings pride and inspiration to his hometown of Shadnagar.
National Achievement
His work contributes to India's growing capabilities in private space exploration.
- Scientist's Name
- Nikhil Madduri
- Company
- Skyroot Aerospace
- Rocket Name
- Vikram-1
- Team Role
- Guidance, Navigation and Control (GNC)
- Education
- IIT Kharagpur, Erasmus Mundus SpaceMaster programme
- Previous Work
- Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA), LCA Tejas programme
- Artistic Pursuit
- Acrylic painting