Launch of India’s first semi-cryogenic rocket cancelled for second time in two weeks

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Chennai-based space tech startup Agnikul Cosmos on April 6 cancelled the launch of India's first semi-cryogenic engine rocket for the second time in two weeks. Agnikul Cosmos did not specify the rationale behind the cancellation.

Launch of the "Agnibaan SOrTeD" (Suborbital Tech Demonstrator) was first scheduled on March 22, but was cancelled a day earlier due to "unavoidable circumstances." The reason for the cancellation was again not specified, but weather disturbances were being speculated.

On March 21, the startup, in a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter), said, "Agnikul is holding the launch out of an abundance of caution based on certain minor observations from the full countdown rehearsals last night. Will keep you all posted on the new date and time. Thanks a lot for all the support."

Agnikul's “Agnibaan SOrTeD” was supposed to be launched from the startup’s private launchpad "Dhanush", at the Satish Dhawan Space Center in Sriharikota.

Also read: Agnikul Cosmos secures $26.7 million for increased capacity and bi-monthly commercial launches

It comprises a single-piece 3D-printed engine, called Agnilet, designed and built indigenously.

Semi-cryogenic engines offer several benefits over cryogenic engines, in terms of efficiency, cost-effectiveness, safety, operational flexibility, etc.

Agnibaan is a technology demonstrator and would help in validating the startup's technologies for their commercial launches.

Established in 2017 by Srinath Ravichandran, Moin SPM, and SR Chakravarthy, of IIT Madras, the startup aims to democratise space exploration by making it both accessible and cost-effective.

Also read: Indian space startup gears up for ambitious rocket launch: Key things to know