Solar Defence and Aerospace Limited (SDAL) based in Nagpur has successfully developed and tested third-stage rocket motor for Vikram-1 Satellite Launch Vehicle, developed by Skyroot Aerospace. This marks a significant milestone in India’s march toward indigenous and private-led space launch capabilities.
Key Highlights
Successful Static Test Conducted:
- The third-stage rocket motor, with a propellant mass of 2400 kg and maximum thrust of 75,000 N, was successfully static-tested at SDAL’s test bed in Nagpur.
- Thrust Vector Control (TVC) was validated through nozzle vectoring during the test.
- The motor was fully instrumented and monitored in real time from the Data Acquisition Centre, ensuring accurate performance assessment.
Quality Assurance:
- The rocket motor and its igniter underwent Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) to ensure structural and functional integrity prior to live testing.
- The testing provides critical performance validation and safety confirmation before flight operations.
About SDAL
- Solar Defence and Aerospace Limited (SDAL) is a private aerospace company that has established a dedicated rocket motor testing facility capable of handling small to large rocket motors, essential for satellite launch vehicles, missiles, and rockets.
- The facility includes: Advanced static test beds; Data acquisition systems; Propellant and thrust testing infrastructure
- The facility enhances cost-effective ground testing, reducing the need for risk-prone in-flight tests during early development.
About Vikram-1 Satellite Launch Vehicle
Developed by: Skyroot Aerospace, a Hyderabad-based space tech start-up.
Type: India’s first private commercial space launch vehicle.
Purpose: Designed to launch small satellites into low Earth orbit (LEO).
Configuration: Three-stage, solid propulsion-based rocket with precision-engineered systems for orbit insertion.
Significance: Aims to revolutionize India’s access to space through private-sector involvement, reducing dependency on ISRO for commercial satellite launches.
Other Developments in India’s Space Infrastructure
ISRO’s Third Launch Pad:
ISRO is developing a third launch pad at Sriharikota, reflecting India’s scaling launch capacity to accommodate the growing demands from both government and private space companies.
Significance of Development:
| Aspect | Impact |
| Private Sector Growth | Reinforces India’s emergence as a global player in space technology led by private innovations. |
| Indigenization | Boosts Atmanirbhar Bharat by enhancing indigenous capabilities in rocket propulsion and satellite launch infrastructure. |
| Cost-Effective Testing | Static test infrastructure reduces costs and enables safer validation compared to full-scale flight testing. |
| Future Launches | Paves the way for Vikram-1’s maiden launch, placing India among the very few nations with private orbital launch vehicles. |