IIT Madras-Backed Agnikul Cosmos Launches World’s First Rocket with Fully 3D Printed Engine

Named ‘Agnibaan - SOrTeD,’ this mission also marks India’s first semi-cryogenic engine to be fully designed and manufactured indigenously and launched from the country’s first privately developed launchpad, ‘Dhanush.’

In a groundbreaking achievement, Agnikul Cosmos, an IIT Madras-incubated startup, successfully launched the world’s first rocket equipped with a single-piece 3D printed engine today at 7:15 AM from Sriharikota. Named ‘Agnibaan - SOrTeD,’ this mission also marks India’s first semi-cryogenic engine to be fully designed and manufactured indigenously and launched from the country’s first privately developed launchpad, ‘Dhanush.’

This significant milestone in space technology represents Agnikul's first flight, aimed at demonstrating their homegrown technologies and gathering crucial flight data. The mission serves as a test flight to ensure the optimal functioning of systems for Agnikul’s future orbital launch vehicle, the ‘Agnibaan.’

Congratulating Agnikul on the launch, Dr. S. Somanath, Chairman of ISRO, said: “The Department of Space and ISRO congratulate Agnikul Cosmos on the successful launch of 'Agnibaan - SOrTeD'. This success, involving many firsts including the 3D printed semi-cryogenic engine and advanced flight control systems, showcases the prowess of indigenous design and innovation. It motivates ISRO to support space startups and non-governmental entities, fostering innovation and Atmanirbharata to create a vibrant space ecosystem in India.”

Dr. Pawan Goenka, Chairman of IN-SPACe, added: “The successful launch of Agnibaan SOrTeD is a milestone not only for Agnikul Cosmos but also for private players contributing to India's growing space sector. The power of young innovators and entrepreneurs, leading with cutting-edge technology like the world's first 3D printed semi-cryogenic engine, is driving the transformation of India’s space sector. At IN-SPACe, we are committed to supporting these pioneers as they propel India to a leadership position in the global space arena.”

Prof. V. Kamakoti, Director of IIT Madras, highlighted: “Sky is no more the limit for our startups. The innovative, first-time-in-the-world deep core technology demonstrated today by Agnikul is a great inspiration for young students to boldly pursue entrepreneurship and become employers.”

Prof. Satyanarayanan R Chakravarthy, Founding Advisor of Agnikul Cosmos, stated: “We are proud to present India’s first semi-cryo rocket engine, also the world’s most integrated single-shot 3D printed piece. This achievement signals our ability to rapidly assemble rockets, an unparalleled capability.”

Agnikul's team consists of over 200 engineers and is closely associated with the National Centre for Combustion Research and Development (NCCRD) at IIT Madras. The team also benefits from the guidance of 45 former ISRO scientists.

The ‘Agnibaan’ launch vehicle is designed to be compatible with the mobile launchpad ‘Dhanush,’ allowing for flexible launch options. It can accommodate payloads ranging from 30 kg to 300 kg, ensuring versatility for various mission requirements.

Agnikul Cosmos aims to conduct an orbital mission by the end of the financial year 2025, with regular flights starting from CY 2025, continuing its mission to democratize space access.

Agnikul Cosmos is an Indian space technology startup incubated by IIT Madras. It holds a patent for the world's first single-piece 3D-printed rocket engine. The team consists of over 200 engineers, supported by 45 former ISRO scientists, with a vision to make space accessible from anywhere, anytime, affordably.

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