TAG: GS 3: SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
THE CONTEXT: Indian space startup Agnikul Cosmos successfully launched its first sub-orbital test vehicle, Agnibaan SOrTeD (Sub-Orbital Technology Demonstrator), powered by the world’s first single-piece 3D-printed rocket engine.
EXPLANATION:
- This historic achievement marks a significant advancement in space technology and innovation, showcasing India’s growing capabilities in the private space sector.
- The Agnibaan SOrTeD vehicle lifted off from Agnikul Cosmos’s private launchpad at Sriharikota, India’s only operational spaceport.
- This event is notable for several firsts:
- It is the first time a private launchpad has been used in India, and
- It is the second launch by a private startup in the country.
- The successful launch came after four previous attempts had been called off, highlighting the challenges and persistence involved in such pioneering efforts.
Agnilet Engine
- The centerpiece of this mission is the Agnilet engine, the world’s first single-piece 3D-printed semi-cryogenic rocket engine.
- Unlike traditional rocket engines, which are composed of multiple parts that are manufactured separately and then assembled, the Agnilet engine is created as a single integrated piece using additive manufacturing.
- This innovative approach significantly reduces the cost and time required for manufacturing and assembling rocket engines.
- The Agnilet engine uses sub-cooled oxygen as fuel, classifying it as a semi-cryogenic engine.
- This is in contrast to the cryogenic engines used in heavier launch vehicles, such as India’s LVM3, which operate on gases liquified at extremely low temperatures.
- The integration of 3D printing technology in creating the Agnilet engine exemplifies a major leap forward in rapid and cost-effective rocket assembly.
Achievements and Future Plans
- The sub-orbital mission was designed to reach an altitude of approximately 8 kilometers before splashing down into the sea.
- This successful test paves the way for Agnikul Cosmos to aim for its first orbital launch, which is planned to carry satellites into Earth’s orbit by the end of the financial year.
- The company envisions providing regular launch services starting next year, catering to payloads ranging from 30 kg to 300 kg.
- Chairman of IN-SPACe praised the achievement as a historic moment for India’s space sector, highlighting the innovation and dedication of Agnikul Cosmos’s team.
- ISRO also congratulated the startup, emphasizing the milestone of realizing a controlled flight with a semi-cryogenic liquid engine manufactured through additive manufacturing.
Mobile Launchpad and Versatility
- The Agnibaan vehicle is designed to launch from a mobile launchpad called Dhanush, which allows it to be deployed from any location.
- This versatility enhances the operational flexibility of Agnikul Cosmos, enabling the company to offer launch services tailored to various customer needs.
- The successful launch of Agnibaan SOrTeD is a testament to the collaborative efforts and support from IN-SPACe and ISRO.
- Co-founder and CEO of Agnikul Cosmos acknowledged the extensive reviews and hard work that went into this achievement, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to develop original space-worthy hardware in India.
Broader Context and Industry Impact
- This milestone by Agnikul Cosmos is part of a broader trend of private space startups emerging in India.
- Skyroot Aerospace, another private launch provider, successfully conducted its first sub-orbital launch in 2022 and is also planning its first orbital launch this year.
- These developments signify a vibrant and competitive private space sector in India, poised to make significant contributions to global space exploration and satellite deployment.