In a milestone for the Indian space sector, start-up Agnikul Cosmos successfully launched its country’s first-ever “Agnibaan-SOrTeD”, the world’s first rocket to be powered by a completely 3D-printed engine The launch took place from India’s first private Indigenous rocket launch site, ‘Dhanush’, which was created by Agnikul in Sriharikota.
Agnikul: Firsy 3D-Printed Rocket Engine Launch
It marks a milestone for India’s expanding private space industry. The rocket, which is powered by India’s first indigenously designed and manufactured semi-cryogenic engine, lifted off from the launch pad at 7:15 AM IST. Though it was a test flight aimed at propelling Agnikul’s upcoming orbital launch vehicle, “Agnibaan,” the successful launch of “Agnibaan – SOrTeD” (Sub-Orbital Technology Demonstrator) underlines Agnikul’s innovative competencies.
A number of the most important Indians in the field of space were present, including Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) Chairman Dr. S. Somanath and IN-SPACe Chairman Dr. Pawan Goenka. Dr. Somanath congratulating Agnikul said that the launch “demonstrates the might of indigenous design and innovation” and serves as a testament to the promise of private players in shaping India’s space future. Dr. Goenka also concurred by saying, “This is certainly a message that will be remembered for ages as a remarkable day in India’s space sector for private contributors.”
Lt. Gen. A.K. Bhatt (Retd.) The Director General of the Indian Space Association (ISpA) said, “What Agnikul has been able to achieve today is a mini milestone towards reaching India’s first rocket launch in 1963 from Thumba launch station.” He said the Agnibaan SOrTeD topic scores many firsts like — India’s first from a private launchpad, the first semi-cryogenic powered rocket launch, and the world’s first with a single-piece 3D printed engine, concept, design, and deployment originating from India. This, he said was an important milestone for the growing private space industry in India and extended Congratulations to the entire team and best wishes for their future endeavours.
Incubated at IIT Madras, Agnikul is working towards democratizing space access by offering cost-effective and flexible launch solutions. The vehicle is Agnibaan, a flagship “Agnibaan” rocket that will be capable of carrying anywhere between 30 kg to 300 kg payloads, depending on mission profiles. With this successful launch, Agnikul is poised for an orbital mission by the end of 2025, heralding a new era for private space exploration in India.
