India’s Ministry of Science and Technology is supporting Chennai-based startup Agnikul Cosmos in developing the “Agnibaan” rocket, designed for affordable, efficient satellite launches. The initiative aims to revolutionize the small satellite launch market.

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• Agnikul Cosmos, a Chennai-based aerospace startup, is developing the Agnibaan rocket with government backing.
• The project is supported by the Technology Development Board (TDB) under the Ministry of Science and Technology.
• Agnibaan is a customisable two-stage rocket capable of carrying payloads up to 300 kg to a 700 km orbit.
• The rocket aims to reduce satellite launch lead times to just two weeks.
• Agnibaan incorporates cutting-edge technologies like India’s first single-piece 3D-printed rocket engine.
• Mobile launch platforms enable deployment from various global locations, offering operational flexibility.
• Agnikul has developed all major subsystems in-house, ensuring quality through comprehensive testing.
• Earlier this year, Agnikul successfully launched Agnibaan SOrTeD, powered by a 3D-printed engine.
• The initiative is set to democratize space access by making satellite launches affordable and accessible.
• Agnikul’s efforts align with the growing global demand for small satellite launches.