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Skyroot Aerospace signed a Multi-Launch Agreement with HEX20 on August 6, 2026 covering three dedicated launches.
The missions are for Earth-observation and payload demonstration, beginning in the fourth quarter of 2027.
Skyroot is based in Hyderabad; HEX20 is a Thiruvananthapuram-based spacetech startup.
The deal follows Vikram-1's maiden orbital flight on July 18, 2026 from Sriharikota.
Vikram-1 is described as India's first privately developed orbital-class launch vehicle.
Low Earth Orbit refers roughly to altitudes between 160 km and 2,000 km above the surface. Most Earth-observation and communications constellations sit here because proximity means better imaging resolution and lower signal delay. Vikram-series missions are designed for both dedicated launches and rideshare, where third-party spacecraft share capacity on the same rocket to reduce cost per satellite. A dedicated launch, as in this agreement, gives the customer control over orbit and timing rather than fitting around another payload's requirements.
Simple Analogy: A rideshare is a shared taxi; a dedicated launch is booking the whole vehicle so it goes exactly where and when you want.
GS Paper III > Science and Technology > Space Sector Reforms and Private Participation
General Awareness > Science and Technology
General Awareness > Space and Strategic Technology
A commercial contract covering multiple satellite launches over a defined period.
An orbital altitude band of roughly 160 km to 2,000 km above the Earth's surface.
A rocket capable of placing a payload into orbit, as distinct from a suborbital sounding rocket.