Vikram-S

#GS-03 Science and Technology

About Vikram S:

Vikram S is the first privately developed rocket.
It is expected to launch from the ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation) launchpad in Sriharikota, between November 12 and 16.
It was developed by the Hyderabad-based Skyroot Aerospace.
The Vikram-S rocket is a single-stage sub-orbital launch vehicle which would carry three customer payloads.
It is also going to help test and validate the majority of the technologies in the Vikram series of space launch vehicles.
The mission named ‘Prarambh’ (the beginning) since it is the first mission for Skyroot.
The rocket was unveiled by ISRO Chairman S. Somanath in Bengaluru after the technical launch clearance from the space regulator IN-SPACe.
Skyroot’s launch vehicles are named ‘Vikram’ as a tribute to the founder of the Indian space programme and renowned scientist Vikram Sarabhai.
With this maiden mission, Skyroot is set to become the first private space company in India to launch a rocket into space.
Skyroot has been developing three variants of the Vikram rocket.
While the Vikram-I can carry 480 kilograms of payload to Low Earth Orbit, the Vikram-II is equipped to lift off with 595 kilograms of cargo.
Meanwhile, Vikram-III can launch with 815 kg to 500 km Low Inclination Orbit.

Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Centre (IN-SPACe) has been created to act as a single-point interface between Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), and everyone who wants to participate in space-related activities, or use India’s space resources.
It will also hand-hold, promote and guide the private industries in space activities through encouraging policies and a friendly regulatory environment.
IN-SAPCe will take up the establishment of temporary and permanent facilities, including infrastructure and safety measures.
It will also be handling building, operating, and control of spacecraft for registration as an Indian Satellite.
Rolling out of space-based activities and usage of spacecraft data will be governed by this agency.
These reforms will allow ISRO to focus more on new technologies, exploration missions and human spaceflight programme.