ISRO extended congratulations to Agnikul, recognizing it as a significant milestone: the inaugural controlled flight of a semi-cryogenic liquid engine crafted through additive manufacturing.
ISRO extended congratulations to Agnikul, recognizing it as a significant milestone: the inaugural controlled flight of a semi-cryogenic liquid engine crafted through additive manufacturing.
Indian space startup Agnikul Cosmos achieved a significant milestone on Thursday with the successful launch of its first sub-orbital test vehicle, propelled by the world’s first single-piece 3D-printed rocket engine. Named Agnibaan SOrTeD (Sub-Orbital Technology Demonstrator), the launch took place at 7:15 am, marking several firsts in the mission. Notably, it is the first launch by a private startup in India to utilize a private launchpad established by the company at Sriharikota, the country’s sole operational spaceport.
Dr. Pawan Goenka, chairman of IN-SPACe, lauded the achievement, highlighting the innovative use of the world’s first single-piece 3D printed semi-cryogenic engine. The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) also commended Agnikul for the milestone, noting it as the first controlled flight of a semi-cryogenic liquid engine manufactured through additive manufacturing.
The use of 3D-printed technology in manufacturing engine parts is expected to reduce launch costs and assembly time significantly, ultimately offering more affordable launch services for small satellites. Prof. Satyanarayanan R Chakravarthy, founding advisor of Agnikul Cosmos, emphasized the unparalleled capability of India’s first semi-cryo rocket engine, underscoring its rapid assembly potential.
The launch vehicle, developed by the IIT Madras-incubated startup, showcased India’s first semi-cryogenic engine named Agnilet, utilizing sub-cooled oxygen as fuel. While the recent launch was suborbital, the vehicle is designed to carry payloads ranging from 30 kg to 300 kg and can launch from its mobile launchpad called Dhanush from any location.
Looking ahead, Agnikul Cosmos aims to conduct its first orbital launch by the end of the financial year, offering regular launches in the following calendar year. The company's achievement adds to the progress in India's private space sector, with other providers like Skyroot also gearing up for their inaugural orbital launches.
Srinath Ravichandran, co-founder and CEO of Agnikul Cosmos, expressed gratitude for the support received from IN-SPACe and ISRO, acknowledging the dedication and effort of the team in realizing the milestone
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