Hyderabad-based Skyroot Aerospace became India’s first space-tech unicorn after raising $60 million at a $1.1 billion valuation. The startup is preparing Vikram-1, India’s first privately developed orbital rocket, for launch from Sriharikota. Best Book for Current Affairs & General Knowledge Preparation
The funding round was co-led by Sherpalo Ventures and Singapore’s sovereign wealth fund GIC. Investors including BlackRock-managed funds, Arkam Ventures, Playbook Partners, and Greenko founders also participated.
Skyroot Aerospace was founded in 2018 by former ISRO scientists Pawan Kumar Chandana and Naga Bharath Daka. The company emerged after India opened the space sector to private participation in 2020.
Skyroot created history in November 2022 by launching Vikram-S, India’s first privately developed rocket to reach space. The suborbital mission “Prarambh” achieved an altitude of nearly 89.5 km.
The upcoming Vikram-1 rocket can place nearly 350 kg payloads into Low Earth Orbit. It uses carbon-composite structures and advanced 3D-printed rocket engines for lower launch costs and higher efficiency.
Skyroot became the first Indian private company to sign agreements to use ISRO testing and launch facilities. The company works closely with IN-SPACe, India’s space sector regulatory and promotion body.
Expected Current Affairs Questions for UPSC CDS NDA and AFCAT 2 2026 Written Exam
Q1. Skyroot Aerospace became India’s first space-tech unicorn after achieving which valuation?
A. $500 million
B. $750 million
C. $1.1 billion
D. $2 billion
Answer: C. $1.1 billion
Explanation: Skyroot crossed the unicorn threshold after a $60 million funding round in 2026.
Q2. Which rocket became India’s first privately developed rocket to reach space?
A. PSLV-C58
B. Vikram-S
C. SSLV-D3
D. Agnibaan
Answer: B. Vikram-S
Explanation: Vikram-S completed the “Prarambh” mission in November 2022.
Q3. IN-SPACe is primarily associated with:
A. Nuclear Regulation
B. Civil Aviation Safety
C. Private Space Sector Promotion
D. Maritime Security
Answer: C. Private Space Sector Promotion
Explanation: IN-SPACe regulates and promotes private participation in India’s space sector.
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Also Read: Important NCERT Notes for UPSC CDS NDA CAPF AC and AFCAT Written Exam
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