In a significant milestone for India’s private space sector, the space startup Agnikul Cosmos successfully launched its first sub-orbital test vehicle on Thursday. This vehicle, powered by the world’s first single-piece 3D-printed rocket engine, represents a breakthrough in space technology. The launch, which took place at 7:15 am, came after at least four previous attempts were called off.
The test vehicle, named Agnibaan SOrTeD (Sub-Orbital Technology Demonstrator), lifted off from a private launchpad established by Agnikul Cosmos at Sriharikota, India’s sole operational spaceport. This launch marks the second successful launch by a private startup in India but is the first to utilize a private launchpad.
Dr. Pawan Goenka, chairman of IN-SPACe (Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Center), expressed his elation on social media platform X (formerly Twitter): “Elated at the successful launch of Agnibaan SOrTeD by @AgnikulCosmos! A historic moment for India’s space sector. Powered by the world’s first single-piece 3D printed semi-cryogenic engine, this achievement showcases the brilliance of our young innovators.”
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) also extended its congratulations to Agnikul Cosmos, recognizing the launch as “a major milestone, as the first-ever controlled flight of a semi-cryogenic liquid engine realized through additive manufacturing.”
Innovation in Rocket Engine Manufacturing
The standout feature of this mission is the single-piece 3D-printed rocket engine, Agnilet. Traditionally, rocket engines are manufactured in separate parts and then assembled, a process that can be time-consuming and costly. The use of 3D printing technology not only reduces the cost but also significantly cuts down the assembly time, making the manufacturing process more efficient.
Agnilet is a semi-cryogenic engine, using sub-cooled oxygen as fuel. This is a step forward from traditional cryogenic engines, like those used in the upper stages of India’s heaviest launch vehicle, LVM3, which rely on gases liquefied at extremely low temperatures. The development and successful flight of Agnilet highlight the innovative capabilities of Agnikul Cosmos and its potential to revolutionize space technology.
Mobile Launch Capability
Another innovative aspect of the Agnibaan SOrTeD launch vehicle is its ability to launch from a mobile platform, named Dhanush. This flexibility allows the vehicle to be launched from any location, making it a versatile option for a variety of missions. While the recent launch was sub-orbital, the vehicle is designed to carry payloads ranging from 30 kg to 300 kg, expanding its potential use cases.
The mission was designed to reach an altitude of approximately 8 kilometers before the vehicle splashed down into the sea, providing valuable data and insights for future launches.
A Step Forward for Affordable Space Access
Agnikul Cosmos aims to offer affordable launch services for small satellites, tapping into a growing market. By leveraging innovative technologies like 3D printing and semi-cryogenic engines, the company is poised to reduce launch costs and improve efficiency, making space more accessible.
This successful launch not only underscores the potential of India’s private space sector but also highlights the growing capabilities and ambitions of startups like Agnikul Cosmos. With continued innovation and support, India is well on its way to becoming a significant player in the global space industry.
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