New Delhi: Space-tech startup Agnikul Cosmos on August 15 commenced the integration process of its state-of-the-art launch vehicle, Agnibaan SOrTeD (SubOrbital Technological Demonstrator), with its exclusive private launchpad situated at the prestigious Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC) SHAR in Sriharikota. This integration process brought Agnikul one step closer to fulfilling its vision of providing reliable and affordable access to space.
The integration process of its state-of-the-art launch vehicle, Agnibaan SOrTeD (SubOrbital Technological Demonstrator), with its exclusive private launchpad was attended by many dignitaries. It saw the presence of distinguished dignitaries, including officials from Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC), Sriharikota, and the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Centre (IN-SPACe), alongside various Agnikul team members. The event marked the official unveiling of the Agnibaan SOrTeD launch vehicle, with A Rajarajan, Director of SDSC-SHAR, leading the proceedings. The unveiling took place at Agnikul’s Mission Control Centre (AMCC) following the vehicle’s transportation to the site.
As a single-stage launch vehicle Agnibaan SOrTeD is powered by Agnikul’s proprietary Agnilet engine – a ground-breaking fully 3D-printed, single-piece, 6 kN semi-cryogenic engine. Symbolising Agnikul’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of space technology, Agnibaan SOrTeD will initiate vertical lift-off and adhere to a predefined trajectory while executing precisely orchestrated manoeuvres during its flight. These flight events have been meticulously designed to validate essential technologies crucial for the success of the company’s upcoming orbital flights. Agnikul anticipates the completion of its first flight within the upcoming weeks.
On November 25, 2022, Agnikul made history by inaugurating India’s premier launchpad and mission control centre at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre. This cutting-edge facility serves as the base from which Agnikul plans to execute its ambitious suborbital and orbital missions in the years ahead.
Co-founder & CEO of Agnikul, Srinath Ravichandran said, “This suborbital mission serves as a validation of Agnikul’s proprietary autopilot, navigation, and guidance algorithms. It also serves as a crucial trial for gauging the launchpad’s preparedness for more ambitious undertakings. Our mission control centre is located right next to the historic SLV launch complex from which India’s first orbital flight led by Dr APJ Kalam Sir was achieved. Having the opportunity to attempt our first flight from this area is a true honour, and we are grateful to IN-SPACe and ISRO for all the encouragement and support.”
At the event where the vehicle was unveiled for the first time, A Rajarajan, Director of SDSC-SHAR remarked, “Delighted to witness Agnikul’s impressive progress thus far. They have our best wishes for a successful first flight and continued activities.”
Highlighting the team’s excitement as their vehicle took its place on the launchpad, poised for its journey to the skies, Co-founder and COO of Agnikul Moin SPM commented, “Building a launch vehicle involves integrating diverse systems and bringing together various teams spanning different disciplines, all united towards a common goal. This vehicle standing on the launchpad is a testament to everyone’s hard work within the team.”
Agnikul Cosmos was founded in 2017 by Srinath Ravichandran, Moin SPM, and Prof SR Chakravarthy from IIT Madras. Agnikul’s primary mission is to democratise space exploration, making it accessible and cost-effective. The company is firmly committed to aligning with the visionary goal of the Prime Minister to nurture the development of a self-reliant India (Aatmanirbhar Bharat) in the realm of space technology.
Agnikul was the first Indian firm to secure an agreement with the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) in December 2020. The agreement, facilitated under the IN-SPACe initiative, granted Agnikul unprecedented access to ISRO’s profound expertise and cutting-edge facilities. These invaluable resources are instrumental in the realisation of Agnikul’s ambitious projects, including the Agnibaan launch vehicle and its associated launchpads.
