New Delhi: Chennai-based space startup Agnikul Cosmos has called off the launch of India’s first semi-cryogenic engine-powered rocket, which was scheduled for early Tuesday.
This is the fourth time in the past three months that the launch of Agnibaan SOrTeD (Sub Orbital Technology Demonstrator) has been stalled due to “technical reasons”.
The launch was initially scheduled for 5.45 am Tuesday but was delayed due to a technical glitch during countdown. It was then rescheduled for liftoff at 9.25 am. However, with just five seconds to launch, the mission was aborted to assess the igniter performance. The launch has been rescheduled with no clarity on the new date.
Agnikul Cosmos has not issued a statement yet. Calls to the company spokesperson went unanswered.
Agnibaan SOrTeD is a single-stage rocket powered by an Agnilet semi-cryogenic engine, a type of rocket engine that uses a combination of liquid and gaseous propellants.
These engines operate at higher temperatures compared to cryogenic engines but are cooler than traditional liquid rocket engines. Agnikul Cosmos said that unlike conventional sounding rockets that launch from guide rails, Agnibaan SOrTeD would lift off vertically and follow a predetermined trajectory while performing a precisely orchestrated set of manoeuvres during its flight.
The vehicle has a plug-and-play engine configuration, a feature that allows it to be precisely tailored to match the mission’s needs. In simpler terms, this means that the rocket, which is also available for commercial missions, can be adjusted to fit the specific requirements of the consumers, highlighting its versatility and potential for various applications.
The launch promises many firsts: India’s first semi-cryogenic engine powered rocket, the world’s first single-piece 3D-printed engine designed and built indigenously, and the country’s first launch from a private launchpad.
There have been three previous attempts at liftoff since March this year. The last attempt was on 7 April, when there was a communication issue detected between two of the launcher’s onboard hardware. The company had then said the launch was called off due to “a communication issue between two of our onboard hardware”.
(Edited by Tikli Basu)
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