IIT Madras Startup Unveils 'World's First Single-Piece 3D Printed Engine'

Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras's innovative startup, Agnikul Cosmos, has unveiled the world's first rocket equipped with a single-piece 3D-printed engine, according to the Indian Space Research

Education May 30, 2024 0 63 Add to Reading List

IIT Madras Startup Unveils 'World's First Single-Piece 3D Printed Engine'

Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras's innovative startup, Agnikul Cosmos, has unveiled the world's first rocket equipped with a single-piece 3D-printed engine, according to the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). The launch occurred at 7:15 am from Sriharikota.

The Launch Event

The rocket, named 'Agnibaan—SubOrbital Technology Demonstrator (SOrTeD)', took off from India's first private rocket launch pad, Dhanush, established by Agnikul. It also marks India's first semi-cryogenic engine-powered rocket launch. This inaugural flight aimed to test in-house technologies, collect essential flight data, and ensure optimal performance for Agnikul's orbital launch vehicle, Agnibaan.

Dignitaries in Attendance

Several dignitaries attended the launch event, including ISRO chairman S Somanath, Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Centre (IN-SPACe) chairman Pawan Goenka, IN-SPACe technical director Shri Rajeev Jyoti, and Sriharikota Range (SHAR) director A Raj Rajan. Key members of Agnikul's team, including founding advisor Satyanarayanan R Chakravarthy and co-founders Srinath Ravichandran and Moin SPM, were also present.

Congratulations and Recognition

ISRO chairman S Somanath commended Agnikul Cosmos by IIT Madras for the successful launch, highlighting the achievement of a 3D-printed semi-cryogenic engine and showcasing indigenous design and innovation. V Kamakoti, director of IIT Madras, praised the accomplishment as an inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs, emphasizing the limitless potential of Indian startups. Satyanarayanan R Chakravarthy emphasized the significance of India's first semi-cryogenic rocket engine, noting its potential to revolutionize space launch capabilities. With over 200 engineers and guidance from former ISRO scientists, Agnikul aims to make substantial contributions to India's technological and economic growth.