Archive · 18 Jul 2026
India Launches First Privately Developed Orbital Rocket
India is making big strides in space.
They've sent spacecraft to Mars and the Moon, and they're about to launch their first privately made rocket called Vikram-1.
This rocket will carry small satellites into space.
India's space program is growing fast and is worth $8.4 billion.
They've launched lots of satellites and work with other countries like the US and Europe.
India also plans to send people into space soon and even build their own space station by 2035.
They're using space technology for other things too, like exploring the deep ocean.
It's an exciting time for India in space!
India is set to launch its first privately developed orbital-class rocket, Vikram-1, between July 12 and August 4.
India's space economy is valued at $8.4 billion and has attracted over 400 space startups since opening to private investment in 2020.
ISRO has launched over 430 foreign satellites and more than 144 of its own, with plans to expand its launchpads.
India's space achievements include missions to Mars, the Moon, and the Sun, with plans for a Venus mission and a manned space flight.
The private space industry in India is growing rapidly, with companies like Skyroot Aerospace, Pixxel, Bellatrix Aerospace, and Agnikul Cosmos making significant contributions.
- Who
- India, ISRO, Skyroot Aerospace
- What
- Launch of India's first privately developed orbital-class rocket, Vikram-1
- When
- Between July 12 and August 4
- Where
- Sriharikota, India
- Why
- To carry small satellites into low-Earth orbit and mark a significant step in India's growing space industry
- Space Economy Value
- $8.4 billion
- Number of Space Startups
- More than 400
- Foreign Satellites Launched
- More than 430
- Own Satellites Launched
- More than 144
- Projected Space Industry Value by 2033
- $44 billion
- Projected Space Industry Value by 2040
- $100 billion
- First Privately Developed Orbital Rocket
- Vikram-1
- Expected Launch Window for Vikram-1
- Between July 12 and August 4