Agnikul Cosmos Successful Mission Marks New Milestones for the Indian Space Sector
Two days after it had to call off its initial attempt, spacetech startup Agnikul Cosmos successfully launched its Agnibaan’s “SubOrbital Technological Demonstrator (SOrTeD)“ mission on Thursday, marking several significant firsts for India’s space sector.
A Historic Launch
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) extended its warmest congratulations to Agnikul Cosmos, stating, “We applaud Agnikul for the successful launch of the Agnibaan SOrTeD-01 mission from their launch pad. This is a major milestone, as it is the first-ever controlled flight of a semi-cryogenic liquid engine realized through additive manufacturing, a testament to Agnikul’s pioneering efforts in the field.”
About the Mission
The single-stage rocket, powered by the semi-cryogenic engine Agnilet, serves as a precursor for the Agnibaan launch vehicle. Agnibaan is a two-stage launch vehicle designed to be highly customizable and capable of carrying a 300kg payload to a 700km orbit.
Key Achievements
Thursday’s mission accomplished three significant milestones:
- India’s First Private Launchpad: The launch took place from the Agnikul Launch Pad in Sriharikota, named Dhanush, marking India’s first launch from a private launchpad.
- Semi-Cryogenic Engine-Powered Rocket: It was the first rocket launch in India powered by a semi-cryogenic engine.
- 3D-Printed Engine: The mission utilized India’s first single-piece 3D-printed engine, a breakthrough in manufacturing technology. This engine, designed and built domestically, demonstrates India’s capability to produce complex aerospace components using advanced additive manufacturing techniques. Its successful operation in the Agnibaan SOrTeD-01 mission paves the way for more cost-effective and efficient space missions in the future.
Mission Objectives
The Agnibaan SOrTeD mission, Agnikul’s first flight, was primarily a test flight aimed at demonstrating in-house technologies, gathering crucial flight data, and ensuring the optimal functioning of systems for future Agnibaan launches. Unlike traditional sounding rockets that launch from guide rails, SOrTeD lifted off vertically, following a predetermined trajectory and performing precisely orchestrated maneuvers during flight.
Technological Innovations
One key system tested was the autopilot, which differentiates an engine ground test from an actual flight. The firm explained, “We characterized the gimbaling system using which the autopilot rotates the thrust at our in-loop facility.”
Industry Reactions
Lt Gen (retd) AK Bhatt, Director General of the Indian Space Association (ISpA), hailed the mission as a historical milestone, stating, “This is a huge boost and a proud moment for India’s thriving private space industry. Our hearty congratulations to the team and best wishes for their future efforts. This significant launch, along with the new guidelines for the Indian Space Policy 2023 and FDI regulations, will bolster global confidence in India’s private space industry and its growing capabilities.”
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Prime Minister’s Congratulations
Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated the Agnikul Cosmos team on social media platform X, writing, “A remarkable feat which will make the entire nation proud!”
This successful mission highlights India’s growing prowess in the private space sector and sets the stage for future innovations and achievements. The successful launch of the Agnibaan SOrTeD-01 mission demonstrates India’s capability to develop and deploy advanced space technologies, paving the way for more ambitious missions and further advancements in the private space industry.