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28. June 2025
Former Isro Chairman Leads Indias Private Space Push With Skyroot Aerospace
Skyroot Aerospace, a Hyderabad-based space startup, has appointed Sreedhara Panicker Somanath, former chairman of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), as its chief technical advisor. This appointment marks a significant milestone for the company, which is on the cusp of achieving major milestones in its orbital launch capabilities.
Somanath, a renowned space veteran with over three decades of experience, brings his expertise to Skyroot at a time when the company is preparing for the flight of Vikram-1, its maiden orbital-class launch vehicle. As chief technical advisor, Somanath will provide guidance and support to Skyroot’s technical team, helping the company refine its launch capabilities and make significant strides in the global satellite market.
The appointment is a testament to Skyroot’s commitment to innovation and excellence in space technology. With his extensive experience leading ISRO’s most ambitious missions, including Chandrayaan-3, Aditya-L1, and the successful trials of the Reusable Launch Vehicle (RLV-LEX), Somanath brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to Skyroot.
Skyroot’s 23-meter Vikram-1 rocket, built with carbon composites and a liquid-engine powered Orbital Adjustment Module, is designed to precisely maneuver in the vacuum for the last-mile delivery of satellites. This capability will enable Skyroot to offer its clients unparalleled precision and reliability, setting it apart from competitors in the global satellite market.
The company’s ambitions are further underscored by its recent announcement of signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Axiom Space, the company that recently carried ISRO astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla to the International Space Station (ISS). This collaboration aims to explore opportunities for joint ventures that will advance space exploration and enhance access to low Earth orbit (LEO).
The partnership between Skyroot and Axiom Space represents a significant step forward in India’s growing private space sector. By collaborating with global players, Skyroot is positioning itself as a major player in the global satellite market, with a focus on delivering high-quality launch services that meet the needs of clients worldwide.
Skyroot was founded in 2018 and has quickly established itself as a major player in the Indian space industry. The company has over 400 employees and raised $27.5 million in funding preparations for its launch into the global satellite market. Its recent success has helped it break out with multiple launches, marking an important milestone in the company’s development.
The appointment of Somanath marks a significant turning point for Skyroot. With his expertise and guidance, the company is poised to make significant strides in orbital launch technology, positioning itself as a major player in the global satellite market. As India continues to emerge as a major player in the global space sector, companies like Skyroot Aerospace are helping to drive forward the country’s ambitions in space technology.
Skyroot will likely achieve significant milestones in the coming months, including the successful flight of Vikram-1. With Somanath at the helm, guiding its technical team and providing expertise and guidance, Skyroot is well-equipped to tackle these challenges, positioning itself for success in the global satellite market.
As India continues to grow as a leader in space exploration and development, companies like Skyroot Aerospace are driving innovation and excellence in the industry. With their commitment to pushing the boundaries of space technology, these companies are poised to make a lasting impact on the global space sector.