From Celebration to Data Analysis: Skyroot Engineers Back to Work After Vikram-1 Launch

Hyderabad:Even before the celebrations ended, engineers behind Skyroot Aerospace's Vikram-1 mission returned to work on Saturday evening, analysing flight parameters and interpreting data from the launch.

"The initial glitch during the countdown was frightening, but once it was fixed and the rocket lifted off, it was a huge relief," engineers told Deccan Chronicle.

Shreesha M., flight dynamics engineer, said the launch was an emotional moment for the entire team. "My voice says more than any expression. The lift-off was my favourite moment. Everything happened within two minutes after the countdown. As the rocket successfully crossed each stage, our happiness only grew," she said.

The engineers had been working round the clock at the Sriharikota launch site for the past few weeks to prepare for the mission.

Around 50 engineers stationed close to the Vikram-1 launch pad described the launch as a once-in-a-lifetime experience for any space engineer. "When the countdown was briefly paused, we were anxious. But we were confident the issue had been identified and fixed. The avionics team carried out double and triple checks before giving the go-ahead," they said.

Another 400 to 500 engineers watched the launch live from the mission auditorium.

Reflecting on the achievement, one engineer said, "No one can break this record now; they can only join it."

Following the successful completion of the launch sequence at around 12.30 pm, the team celebrated briefly before returning to technical review meetings. Engineers immediately began assessing flight parameters, analysing telemetry and interpreting mission data.

Looking ahead, the team said its focus is on bringing more customers on board and conducting additional rocket launches.

"After weeks of continuous work, we will soon leave Sriharikota with our systems. We hope to return very soon for more missions," the engineers said.