Technical delays halt Agnibaan rocket test launch by Agnikul Cosmos

Agnikul Cosmos, a private aerospace company, faced its third postponement of the maiden test launch of its Agnibaan rocket due to technical issues. 

Delays and technical challenges

The launch was planned from India's first private launchpad, ALP-01, situated at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota.Originally scheduled for Sunday, the test launch faced delays after being initially set for Saturday. Last month, Agnikul Cosmos also postponed the launch without specifying the reasons.

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The SOrTeD mission's goals

The maiden SOrTeD mission aims to showcase significant advancements in India's space capabilities. It features a single-stage launch vehicle demonstration powered by the Agnilet, a semi-cryogenic engine developed domestically. This mission is crucial for demonstrating several milestones:

1. Private Launchpad Debut: The launch marks India's first private launch from a dedicated facility.
   
2. Semi-Cryogenic Engine Power: It demonstrates the country's first semi-cryogenic engine-powered rocket launch.

3. Innovative 3D-Printed Engine: Agnibaan incorporates India's first single-piece 3D-printed engine, designed to power the launch vehicle.

Agnibaan is a two-stage launch vehicle known for its adaptability, designed to carry payloads up to 300 kg to a 700 km orbit.A successful Agnibaan launch would mark a significant technological advancement for India's space exploration ambitions. Agnikul Cosmos is yet to announce a revised launch date for the Agnibaan mission, which holds promise for India's growing role in space technology.

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