Skyroot Moves First Stage of Its Second Vikram-1 Rocket to Sriharikota

Skyroot Aerospace has begun moving hardware for a second Vikram-1 rocket, saying the vehicle's first stage is on its way to the spaceport at Sriharikota. The Hyderabad-based company announced the move on X on National Space Day, describing it as the beginning of the rocket's next journey to orbit.

The step follows closely on the company's first orbital flight. Just over a month ago Vikram-1 reached orbit on its maiden attempt, a milestone for India's private space sector. Moving hardware for another vehicle so soon suggests preparations for a second mission are already under way.

Skyroot framed the development as a continuation rather than a fresh start, saying its journey is moving from one flight to the next. The company's post ended with the phrase "Onwards & Upwards".

The announcement carries no launch date and no mission specifications. It covers the transport of the stage itself rather than a schedule, so when the second Vikram-1 will fly, and what it will carry, remain unstated.

Sriharikota, on India's east coast, is the country's established launch site, and the stage is now travelling towards it as launch preparations begin.