India’s private space sector faced a setback as Agnikul Cosmos, a spacetech startup, called off the inaugural test launch of its single-stage technology demonstrator rocket, Agnibaan’s “SubOrbital Technological Demonstrator or SOrTeD”. The mission, intended to be a significant milestone, was aborted on Tuesday due to technical glitches observed just minutes before liftoff.
Powered by a semi-cryogenic engine named Agnilet, the SOrTeD mission aimed to achieve several milestones, including India’s first private launch from a private launchpad, the debut of a semi-cryogenic engine-powered rocket, and the utilization of the first single-piece 3D-printed engine for a launch vehicle.
Initially scheduled for 5.45 am, the launch faced a delay as it was put “on hold” due to unspecified technical issues. Despite resuming the countdown at 9.25 am, another hold was announced to check on “ignition,” ultimately leading to the mission’s cancellation. Agnikul Cosmos, an IIT-incubated startup, expressed disappointment over the failure but vowed to analyze available data to determine the cause.
This cancellation follows a previous postponement earlier this year, attributed to technical issues detected just seconds before liftoff. Despite these setbacks, Agnikul remains optimistic about its future endeavors, particularly its Agnibaan launch vehicle, designed for high customizability and capable of carrying a 300kg payload to a 700km orbit.
The much-anticipated launch was intended to take place from India’s sole private launchpad, Agnikul Launch Pad (ALP), situated at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota. Equipped with critical systems to ensure operationality during countdown, the ALP symbolizes a significant milestone for India’s private space industry.
Agnilet, the sub-cooled liquid oxygen-based propulsion system powering the SOrTeD mission, is expected to play a crucial role in Agnikul’s future endeavors, propelling multiple Agnibaan launches in the years to come, marking a significant advancement for India’s space capabilities.
Despite this setback, Agnikul Cosmos remains committed to advancing India’s space exploration efforts, demonstrating the resilience and determination of the country’s burgeoning private space industry.