Written by Pallava Bagla, Updated: May 30, 2024, 10:29 am IST
New Delhi: Agnikul Cosmos, a private space start-up based in Chennai, successfully test-fired its rocket named Agnibaan SOrTeD (Suborbital Tech Demonstrator), marking a significant milestone in India's space exploration history. ISRO chairman Mr. S. Somanath confirmed the successful launch.
"Congratulations @AgnikulCosmos for the successful launch of the Agnibaan SoRTed-01 mission from their launch pad. A major milestone, as the first-ever controlled flight of a semi-cryogenic liquid engine realized through additive manufacturing," ISRO posted on X.
The Launch
The launch took place at 7:15 am from Sriharikota. The rocket, designed and powered by Agnikul Cosmos, features a semi-cryogenic engine that uses commercially available aviation turbine fuel (kerosene) and medical-grade liquid oxygen. This innovation makes Agnikul the first Indian private firm to fly a semi-cryogenic engine.
A Remarkable Achievement
Agnikul Cosmos, incubated at IIT-Madras and founded in 2017 by two young aerospace engineers, achieved this feat with their Agnibaan SOrTeD rocket. The 575 kg, 6.2-meter-long rocket lifted off successfully, fulfilling all mission objectives of the controlled vertical ascent flight.
"Our greatest thanks to @INSPACeIND @isro @iitmadras & our incredibly committed team in helping us prove that a private player can design and fly original space tech hardware in India. #madeInIndiaForTheWorld," Agnikul stated.
Overcoming Challenges
This successful launch followed four previous attempts that were aborted due to technical issues. The young team of engineers demonstrated remarkable patience and resilience, bouncing back each time to ensure the mission's success.
Innovation and Support
Agnikul's semi-cryogenic engine, entirely 3D-printed as a single piece, is a world-first. This technological breakthrough reduces quality testing time significantly. Mr. Moin SPM, co-founder of Agnikul Cosmos, highlighted the benefits of using 3D printing technology for producing non-corrosive, easily available fuel-powered engines.
Private Launchpad
Agnikul was granted permission to build a special launchpad with a dedicated control room near the sea on Sriharikota island. This initiative is part of ISRO's efforts to support Indian space companies by providing necessary facilities.
Future Prospects
Agnikul aims to undertake launch-on-demand services and deploy 30 to 300 kg satellites into space. Their mobile launch pad, 'Dhanush', makes the launch location agnostic, providing flexibility and reducing costs. The company envisions building fully customizable and transportable launch vehicles for small satellites in Low Earth Orbits (LEO).
Investment and Growth
Agnikul has attracted an investment of $40 million and employs a team of 250 members, with an average age of 23 years. The company is poised to make India a hub for small satellite launches, catering to the growing demand for satellite constellations in low earth orbits.
Agnikul's success follows the first launch by Skyroot Aerospace Private Limited in 2022, which flew a solid-fueled sounding rocket from Sriharikota. The continued progress of Indian space start-ups highlights the country's potential in the global space industry.