Space payload built by VIT-AP students launched aboard Vikram-1 rocket
Students and faculty from VIT-AP University successfully launched their VISWA-M satellite payload aboard a Vikram-1 rocket from Sriharikota. The project aims to study solar radiation and demonstrates the growing capabilities of India's private space sector.
Why it matters
The success of academic-led space missions highlights the progress of India's private space industry and the importance of experiential learning in STEM.
The VIT-A.P. University has announced the successful launch of VISWA-M (VIT Satellite Wavelength Analysis Module), an experimental space payload conceived, designed and developed by its students and faculty. The payload was carried into the orbit aboard the SOLARAS nanosatellite on Skyroot Aerospace’s Vikram-1 launch vehicle, which lifted off from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC-SHAR), Sriharikota, at 12:05 p.m. on Saturday.
Among those who witnessed the historic launch from Sriharikota was Andhra Pradesh Minister for Education, IT and Electronics Nara Lokesh, accompanied by his son Devansh. The Minister described it as a proud moment for India’s scientific and technological progress.
During the mission, the Vikram-1 rocket deployed four small satellites with a combined payload mass of around 350 kilograms, demonstrating the capabilities of India’s growing private launch industry.
For VIT-AP University, the launch represents its first-ever spaceborne research payload, underscoring the institution’s commitment to cutting-edge research, innovation, and experiential learning.
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