Agnikul successfully launches 3D-printed rocket in sub-orbital test following delays

Indian space startup Agnikul has achieved a major milestone by successfully launching its first sub-orbital test vehicle, powered by its unique 3D-printed rocket engines. After two years of preparation and several delays, the launch took place at the Satish Dhawan Space Center on Sriharikota island in South India.

The single-stage launch vehicle, named Agnibaan SOrTeD, lifted off Thursday morning local time, marking a significant step towards the development of Agnikul’s commercial orbital launch vehicle. The rocket, made of carbon composite and equipped with 3D-printed semi-cryogenic engines, splashed down in the Bay of Bengal after a successful flight.

Agnikul’s CEO, Srinath Ravichandran, highlighted the innovative aspect of their 3D-printed engine, which is manufactured in-house and offers flexibility and configurability in reaching space. The startup’s use of inconel material for the engine design posed challenges in heat removal, but Agnikul’s engineering team overcame these obstacles through iterative design processes.

The successful launch positions Agnikul as a key player in the space industry, offering tailor-made solutions for organizations looking to launch small satellites. With support from retired ISRO scientists and researchers from IIT Madras, Agnikul is already in talks with potential customers and aims to conduct an orbital launch of Agnibaan in the near future.

India’s space sector has been gaining global attention, with the country’s focus on private participation and technological advancements. With around 190 space tech startups and updated policies to encourage foreign investments, Indian space startups like Agnikul are poised to lead the country’s space sector to new heights and attract customers worldwide.