In a remarkable step for student-driven space research in India, students from KL University successfully launched three satellites from the university’s campus. The event marked a proud moment for the institution and the state, showcasing young innovators’ potential in advancing science and technology.

The highlight of the launch was KLSAT-2, a hybrid AeroSwift VTOL (Vertical Take-Off and Landing) module designed and built entirely by students from the Department of Electronics and Communication Engineering (ECE). The advanced 2U CubeSat carries a high-precision spectrometer capable of measuring multiple wavelengths to collect environmental and atmospheric data. Its main focus is to study air pollution, ozone concentration, and weather patterns. Launched using a drone, KLSAT-2 traveled around 60 kilometers parallel to the Earth’s surface, successfully capturing data before landing safely back at the university’s launch pad.

Two other satellites were also part of the mission. KL JAC, a credit-card-sized pico balloon satellite, is designed to operate in the troposphere for up to three months. It monitors air quality, temperature, and humidity while transmitting real-time telemetry data. 

CONSAT, a mini-satellite selected in a national competition organized by IN-SPACe, ISRO, and the Astronautical Society of India, focuses on weather and air-quality research, sending live readings to the university’s control center.

The launch event was attended by Union Minister of State for Science and Technology Bhupathiraju Srinivasa Varma and Andhra Pradesh Deputy Speaker Kanumuru Raghurama Krishnam Raju, along with university officials and hundreds of students. Both leaders praised the initiative, calling it an inspiring example of innovation under the Make in India and Atmanirbhar Bharat missions.

KL University Vice-Chairman Koneru Nikhila Karthikeyan congratulated the students and faculty, highlighting the university’s goal to expand its research capabilities further and move towards its own rocket launch program in the near future. This milestone further reinforces KL University’s standing among the top universities in Vijayawada, setting new benchmarks in student-led scientific exploration and innovation.