Indian space startup Agnikul has successfully launched its first sub-orbital test vehicle, powered by its unique 3D-printed rocket engines. The launch vehicle, called Agnibaan SOrTeD (Sub-Orbital Technology Demonstrator), lifted off from the startup’s mobile launchpad at the Satish Dhawan Space Center on South India’s Sriharikota island.
The launch comes after two years of preparation and four delays over the past several months due to technical glitches. The data from the test flight will contribute to the development of the startup’s Agnibaan commercial orbital launch vehicle.
The 6.2-meter-tall vehicle is made of carbon composite, which gives it a liftoff mass of 1,268 lbs. At its heart is the 3D-printed semi-cryogenic engine that Agnikul manufactured in-house, each of which provides 6.2 kN of thrust. The startup can produce two fully finished engines in a week, including taking them from the 3D printer, de-powdering them, and passing them through heat treatment.
The core engine, where the fuel enters and exhaust leaves and everything in between, and the igniter, is 3D printed in one shot as a single piece of hardware. The engine is then connected to the plumbing apparatus, such as fuel pipes, pressure and temperature sensors, and valves.
The successful launch of Agnibaan SOrTeD marks a major milestone in India’s private space industry and showcases the brilliance of young innovators. The mission lasted just over two minutes from launch to splashdown.
Read more: techcrunch.com