Agnikul Cosmos successfully launches first sub-orbital test vehicle with 3D-printed engine
The test vehicle was powered by a revolutionary single-piece 3D-printed rocket engine.
Indian space startup Agnikul Cosmos has successfully launched its first sub-orbital test vehicle, the Agnibaan SOrTeD (Sub-Orbital Technology Demonstrator), at 7:15 am. This test vehicle was powered by a revolutionary single-piece 3D-printed rocket engine. This launch faced several delays before achieving this.
The Agnibaan SOrTeD launch is the second launch by a private startup in India. However, it is the first to use a private launchpad set up by Agnikul Cosmos at Sriharikota.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated the Agnikul Cosmos team via a post on X (formerly Twitter), saying, “A remarkable feat which will make the entire nation proud! The successful launch of Agnibaan rocket powered by world’s first single-piece 3D printed semi-cryogenic engine is a momentous occasion for India’s space sector and a testament to the remarkable ingenuity of our Yuva Shakti. My best wishes to the Agnikul Cosmos team for their future endeavours.”
Agnikul Cosmos Launches Groundbreaking Rocket with 3D-Printed Engine
Dr. Pawan Goenka, chairman of IN-SPACe, the organisation responsible for coordinating with the private space sector in India, also posted on X, writing, “Elated at the successful launch of Agnibaan SOrTeD by @AgnikulCosmos! A historic moment for India’s space sector. Powered by world’s first single piece 3D printed semi-cryogenic engine, this achievement showcases brilliance of our young innovators.”
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) also posted on X, stating, “a major milestone, as the first-ever controlled flight of a semi-cryogenic liquid engine realized through additive manufacturing”.
Generally, rocket engines are made by manufacturing individual parts separately and then assembling them. But the use of 3D-printed manufacturing processes, as shown by Agnikul Cosmos, lower launch costs and reduces vehicle assembly time. This approach aims to offer more affordable launch services, especially for small satellite missions.
Professor Satyanarayanan R Chakravarthy, an advisor to Agnikul Cosmos and head of IIT Madras’ National Centre for Combustion Research and Development, by highlighting the importance of this technological breakthroug said, “This is a significant achievement for India’s space industry. We’ve developed India’s first semi-cryogenic engine, and it’s also the world’s most intricate single-piece 3D printed component. This technology has the potential to revolutionize rocket assembly with its unmatched speed.”
On Thursday, May 30, Indian space startup Agnikul Cosmos successfully launched its first sub-orbital test vehicle, the Agnibaan SOrTeD (Sub-Orbital Technology Demonstrator), at 7:15 am. This test vehicle was powered by a revolutionary single-piece 3D-printed rocket engine. This launch faced several delays before achieving this.
The Agnibaan SOrTeD launch is the second launch by a private startup in India. However, it is the first to use a private launchpad set up by Agnikul Cosmos at Sriharikota. This highlights the growing capabilities and contributions of India’s private space sector.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated the Agnikul Cosmos team via a post on X (formerly Twitter), saying, “A remarkable feat which will make the entire nation proud! The successful launch of Agnibaan rocket powered by world’s first single-piece 3D printed semi-cryogenic engine is a momentous occasion for India’s space sector and a testament to the remarkable ingenuity of our Yuva Shakti. My best wishes to the Agnikul Cosmos team for their future endeavours.”
Dr. Pawan Goenka, chairman of IN-SPACe, the organisation responsible for coordinating with the private space sector in India, also posted on X, writing, “Elated at the successful launch of Agnibaan SOrTeD by @AgnikulCosmos! A historic moment for India’s space sector. Powered by world’s first single piece 3D printed semi-cryogenic engine, this achievement showcases brilliance of our young innovators.”
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) also posted on X, stating, “a major milestone, as the first-ever controlled flight of a semi-cryogenic liquid engine realized through additive manufacturing”.
Generally, rocket engines are made by manufacturing individual parts separately and then assembling them. But the use of 3D-printed manufacturing processes, as shown by Agnikul Cosmos, lower launch costs and reduces vehicle assembly time. This approach aims to offer more affordable launch services, especially for small satellite missions.
Professor Satyanarayanan R Chakravarthy, an advisor to Agnikul Cosmos and head of IIT Madras’ National Centre for Combustion Research and Development, by highlighting the importance of this technological breakthroug said, “This is a significant achievement for India’s space industry. We’ve developed India’s first semi-cryogenic engine, and it’s also the world’s most intricate single-piece 3D printed component. This technology has the potential to revolutionize rocket assembly with its unmatched speed.”
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