Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently inaugurated Skyroot Aerospace’s advanced Infinity Campus in Hyderabad, unveiling Vikram-I, India’s first privately developed commercial orbital rocket. This launch signifies a pivotal moment for India's burgeoning private space sector, showcasing the nation's ambition to become a global hub for satellite launches.
Vikram-I is Skyroot’s inaugural orbital-class launch vehicle, specifically designed to deploy small satellites into low Earth orbit. This rocket marks a significant shift from the company’s previous sub-orbital missions, transitioning to full commercial launch services. Once operational, Vikram-I is anticipated to greatly increase India’s share in the global commercial space market.
The newly inaugurated Infinity Campus covers nearly 200,000 square feet and is equipped for the design, integration, and testing of multiple launch vehicles. With the facility's capacity to manufacture one orbital rocket each month, it significantly enhances India’s ability to provide rapid and cost-effective launch services.
During the inauguration, the Prime Minister emphasized various policy measures that have opened the space sector to private enterprises. This includes the establishment of IN-SPACe, which facilitates private participation and expands industry access to ISRO’s infrastructure. These initiatives have catalyzed the emergence of over 300 space-tech startups in India, many founded by engineers and scientists dedicated to advancing launch and satellite technologies.
The launch of Vikram-I is part of India’s broader innovation landscape, which includes over 150,000 registered startups across various sectors such as fintech, agritech, climate-tech, and defense technology. The government’s focus on deep-tech manufacturing, including semiconductor fabrication and advanced design hubs, bolsters the country’s goal to strengthen global supply chains and enhance high-technology exports.
Q1. What is Vikram-I?
Answer: Vikram-I is India’s first privately developed orbital rocket, designed by Skyroot Aerospace to place small satellites into low Earth orbit.
Q2. What is the significance of the Infinity Campus?
Answer: The Infinity Campus is a state-of-the-art facility that can manufacture one orbital rocket per month, enhancing India's capabilities in private space manufacturing.
Q3. How has the government supported private space ventures in India?
Answer: The government established IN-SPACe and implemented policies to facilitate private sector participation, leading to the growth of over 300 space-tech startups.
Q4. What role does Skyroot Aerospace play in India's space sector?
Answer: Skyroot Aerospace is a key player in India's private space sector, focusing on developing launch vehicles and satellite technologies to enhance India's position in the global market.
Q5. How many startups are registered in India’s innovation ecosystem?
Answer: There are over 150,000 registered startups in India, spanning various fields including technology, agriculture, and defense.
Question 1: What is the main purpose of Vikram-I rocket?
A) To launch crewed missions
B) To deploy small satellites into low Earth orbit
C) To conduct scientific experiments in space
D) To establish a space station
Correct Answer: B
Question 2: What does IN-SPACe stand for?
A) Indian Space Policy and Access Center
B) Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Center
C) International National Space Program
D) Indian Neoteric Space Agency
Correct Answer: B
Question 3: How often can the Infinity Campus produce an orbital rocket?
A) Every week
B) Once a year
C) Monthly
D) Every two months
Correct Answer: C
Question 4: Which of the following sectors has over 150,000 registered startups in India?
A) Education
B) Healthcare
C) Technology
D) All of the above
Correct Answer: D
Question 5: Who inaugurated the Infinity Campus in Hyderabad?
A) The President of India
B) The Minister of Science and Technology
C) Prime Minister Narendra Modi
D) The Chief Minister of Telangana
Correct Answer: C
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