Agnikul Cosmos Set to Make History with Agnibaan SOrTeD Sub-Orbital Rocket Launch

Space News ,India :-  Chennai-based startup Agnikul Cosmos is gearing up for a significant milestone in India's space sector with the impending launch of its sub-orbital rocket, Agnibaan SOrTeD. The launch is scheduled between March 22nd and 28th, 2024, from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, marking India's second venture into private space launches following Skyroot Aerospace's successful Vikram-S mission.

Agnibaan SOrTeD: A Technological Marvel

Agnibaan SOrTeD stands out as a unique single-stage launch vehicle specifically designed to propel small satellites into suborbital trajectories. What distinguishes it is the groundbreaking Agnilet engine, a semi-cryogenic propulsion system entirely 3D-printed in a single piece. Unlike traditional sounding rockets, Agnibaan SOrTeD opts for a vertical liftoff, executing precise maneuvers in-flight without relying on launch rails for guidance.

Mission Objectives Unveiled

Agnikul has laid out two primary objectives for this suborbital launch. Firstly, it serves as a crucial test for the company's proprietary navigation, guidance, and autopilot systems. Additionally, the mission aims to generate valuable data for evaluating the capabilities of Agnikul's launchpad infrastructure, setting the stage for more complex future launches.

India's Expanding Private Space Industry

The imminent launch of Agnibaan SOrTeD underscores the rapid growth and aspirations of India's private space sector. Success in this mission not only validates Agnikul's technological prowess but also contributes significantly to the development of indigenous space capabilities.

This achievement opens doors to a future where private space companies play a pivotal role in India's space exploration endeavors, shaping the landscape of the country's space industry.