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Agnibaan SOrTeD: India’s next Private Rocket
Agnibaan SOrTeD Rocket
On March 22, 2023, India is set to create history with the launch of Agnikul’s Agnibaan SOrTeD Rocket, the country’s second privately developed rocket, from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, Tamil Nadu.
This launch will showcase India’s growing capabilities in the private space sector, with the rocket featuring a patented single-piece 3D printed design and being the first liquid oxygen-kerosene rocket flight from India’s first privately developed launchpad.
What is the Agnibaan SOrTeD Rocket?
Agnibaan SOrTeD is a single-stage launch vehicle developed by AgniKul Cosmos, an Indian space startup. The rocket is powered by AgniKul’s patented Agnilet engine, which is entirely 3D-printed, single-piece, and 6 kN semi-cryogenic. The Agnilet engine burns kerosene in liquid oxygen and can be directly used in the rocket. Agnibaan is capable of taking up to 100 kg to orbits around 700 km high and can access both low and high inclination orbits. The vehicle has a height of 18 meters, a diameter of 1.3 meters, and a lift-off mass of 14,000 kilograms.
Key Features Table Agnibaan SOrTeD Rocket & Significance
| Feature | Description | Significance |
|---|---|---|
| 3D-printed Agnilet engine | Entirely 3D-printed, single-piece, 6 kN semi-cryogenic engine | Enables cost-effective and efficient manufacturing |
| Single-stage launch vehicle | Simplified design for easier launch operations | Reduces complexity and cost compared to multi-stage rockets |
| Payload capacity | Up to 100 kg to orbits around 700 km high | Suitable for small satellite launches |
| Access to orbits | Can access both low and high inclination orbits | Increases mission flexibility and potential customer base |
How Does Agnibaan SOrTeD Compare to Other Rockets?
Agnibaan SOrTeD is set to be India’s second private sub-orbital rocket, following Skyroot Aerospace’s Vikram-S rocket, which reached a peak altitude of 89.5 kilometers in November 2022. Agnibaan SOrTeD has a higher payload capacity and potential compared to Vikram-S, making it a more attractive option for small satellite launches.
Why is the Agnibaan SOrTeD Launch Significant?
The Agnibaan SOrTeD launch is significant for several reasons. Firstly, it demonstrates AgniKul Cosmos’ technological capabilities and the viability of its 3D-printed Agnilet engine. Secondly, the launch will have a substantial impact on India’s space industry, promoting private spaceflight as it will be India’s first launch from a private launchpad.
How is the Indian Government Supporting Private Space Startups?
The top 5 major initiatives and policies by the Indian government to support private space startups:
- Opening up the space sector to private players in 2020, allowing them to build satellites, rockets and provide launch services.
- Establishing IN-SPACe (Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Centre) in 2020 to regulate and authorize private space activities.
- Setting up NewSpace India Limited (NSIL) in 2019 as ISRO’s commercial arm to enable industry participation in space activities and satellite launches.
- Introducing a new regulatory framework and Space Policy 2023 to provide guidelines and stability for private space companies.
- Offering seed funding to space startups, with NSIL announcing investment of $1.2 billion over 5 years to boost industry involvement.
What are the Challenges Faced by Private Space Startups in India?
Private space startups in India face several challenges, including regulatory hurdles and the need for infrastructure. The competition and market dynamics in the global space industry also pose challenges for these startups.
Final Thoughts
The Agnibaan SOrTeD launch represents a boost of India’s private space sector. The successful launch of this 3D-printed rocket will demonstrate the technological capabilities of Indian space startups and pave the way for further growth and investment in the sector.
