Space Tech Start Up successfully Launched the Rocket Agnibaan from launchpad called ‘Dhanush
Rocket Agnibaan SOrTeD (SubOrbital Technological Demonstrator) was launched from India’s first privately developed launchpad called ‘Dhanush’ established by Agnikul at Sriharikota in Andhra Pradesh at 7:15 a.m. on Thursday, 30 may 2024.
This rocket is indigenously designed and manufactured by Chennai-based space startup AgniKul Cosmos.
The Indian Space Research Organisation (Isro) has not yet successfully flown a semi-cryogenic engine, in which a mix of liquid and gas is used as a propellant.
The startup is looking at flying an orbital mission towards the end of 2024–25 and is working with customers on flights starting regularly in the calendar year 2025.
S Somanath, chairman of Isro, said, “The Department of Space and Isro congratulate AgniKul Cosmos on the successful launch of Agnibaan SOrTeD. The success involving many firsts, including 3D-printed semi-cryogenic engines, flight control systems, etc., demonstrates the prowess of indigenous design and innovation. It motivates Isro to support space startups and non-governmental entities for innovation and atmanirbharta to create a vibrant space ecosystem in the country.”
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday lauded the successful launch of a rocket, powered by the world’s first single-piece 3D-printed semi-cryogenic engine, as a “momentous occasion” for India’s space sector.
Key purpose of Agnibaan
The key purpose of this mission to serve as a test flight
Demonstrate in-house and home-grown technologies
Gather crucial flight data
Ensure optimal functioning of systems for AgniKul’s orbital launch vehicle, the ‘Agnibaan’.
The Agnibaan rocket is a customisable, two-stage launch vehicle that can carry up to 300 kilogram (kg) of payload to orbits nearly 700 kilometre in altitude, the company said. This can be compared to SpaceX’s Falcon Heavy, which can carry 63,500 kg to low Earth orbit, according to reports.
About Agnikul
Founded in 2017 by Srinath Ravichandran, Moin S P M, and S R Chakravarthy, a professor from IIT Madras
AgniKul became the first Indian firm to sign an agreement with Isro in December 2020.
The agreement was facilitated under the IN-SPACe initiative, granting AgniKul unprecedented access to Isro’s expertise and cutting-edge facilities.
The company is one of the highest-funded space startups in India and has raised $42 million so far.
A K Bhatt, director-general, Indian Space Association said “This significant launch, coupled with the recently introduced guidelines for the implementation of the Indian Space Policy 2023 by IN-SPACe and the new foreign direct investment regulations, will undoubtedly bolster global confidence in India’s private space industry and its growing capabilities,”
