- Agnikul Cosmos, based in Chennai, takes a crucial stride forward by relocating its unique rocket, Agni-1, to Sriharikota for integration testing.
- Following Skyroot Aerospace, Agnikul could become the second Indian space-tech startup to attain suborbital space flight capability if the integration checks go well.
Agnikul’s Amazing Space Vehicle:
- Agnikul’s proprietary Agnilet semi-cryogenic engine powers the Agnibaan SOrTeD, a single-stage launch vehicle.
- Unlike traditional sounding rockets, Agnibaan SOrTeD’s vertical take-off and accurate trajectory allow for coordinated manoeuvres in flight.
(A) Distinct Features of Agnibaan
- Customizability: The rocket offers custom launch configurations, either single or two-stage launches.
- Agnibaan SOrTeD has impressive dimensions, standing at 18 metres and weighing 14,000 kg.
- Payload Capacity: With a payload capacity of up to 100 kg, it can reach 700 km heights in five different Lower Earth Orbits (LEOs).
- Engine Configuration: Depending on the mission requirements, the first stage can house up to seven Agnilet engines powered by Liquid Oxygen and Kerosene.
- Versatile Launch: Designed for launch from a variety of launch ports.
- AgniKul’s built ‘Dhanush’ launch pedestal supports the rocket’s mobility among configurations, ensuring compatibility with numerous launch ports.
- Agnilet Engine: The entire operation is powered by the world’s only single-piece 3D-printed engine.
(B) Innovative Agnilet Engine
- Agnilet engine, a 3D-printed, single-piece, 6 kN semi-cryogenic miracle, powers Agnibaan’s propulsion.
- The engine uses a new blend of liquid kerosene and supercold liquid oxygen as propellants, which was successfully tested at the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre.
Source: https://www.businesstoday.in/latest/trends/story/its-sorted-indian-spacetech-start-up-agnikul-one-step-closer-to-launching-worlds-first-3d-printed-rocket-into-space-394507-2023-08-17#:~:text=World's%20first%203D%20printed%20engine,km%20distance%20in%20the%20LEO.