Pawan Kumar Chandana, co-founder and CEO of Skyroot Aerospace, has entered the TIME100 Next 2026 list. The IIT Kharagpur graduate moved from India’s space programme to build a commercial rocket company. Skyroot’s Vikram-1 mission on July 18, 2026 marked the first successful orbital launch from Indian soil by a privately developed Indian rocket, according to ISRO. The launch from Sriharikota carried multiple satellites into low earth orbit. Vikram-1 can carry up to 350 kg to low earth orbit, aimed at the small-satellite launch market. The mission was seen as a milestone for India’s private space sector. Chandana’s journey from a mechanical engineering dual degree in 2012 to leading a rocket startup has drawn wide attention. IIT Kharagpur celebrated its alumnus on social media. The TIME100 Next list honours rising leaders across fields. Skyroot now plans dedicated and shared launch services for satellite operators in India and abroad. The recognition places Chandana among the world’s most promising young leaders.