Source: IndiaToday

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Context

• Agnikul Cosmos, a Chennai-based space start-up, has achieved a significant milestone by successfully launching the SOrTeD mission.
• This mission utilized the Agnibaan rocket, powered by the world’s first single-piece 3D-printed semi-cryogenic rocket engine, Agnilet.

Details

• The SOrTeD (Agnibaan SubOrbital Technological Demonstrator) mission is a single-stage launch vehicle demonstration.

Mission Details

Launch Vehicle: Agnibaan

• Design: The Agnibaan is a 6.2-meter-tall single-stage launch vehicle with an elliptical nose cone. It is designed for versatility and precision in small satellite launches.
• Technology: The vehicle is equipped with advanced avionics architecture and in-house developed autopilot software, ensuring robust flight control and maneuverability.
• The Agnibaan is expected to be highly customizable and capable of carrying a 300kg payload to a 700km orbit.

Launch Site

• The mission was launched from ALP-01, India's first private launchpad, situated at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota.

The Agnilet Engine

• Innovation: The Agnilet engine is the world’s first single-piece 3D-printed semi-cryogenic rocket engine. This breakthrough in additive manufacturing reduces manufacturing complexity and cost.
• Performance: The engine's semi-cryogenic nature allows it to utilize liquid oxygen (LOX) and kerosene, providing efficient thrust for the launch vehicle.
• Manufacturing: 3D printing technology enables the production of complex engine parts as a single piece, reducing the number of joints and potential failure points.

Mission Execution

• Flight Duration: The mission lasted approximately two minutes, demonstrating the vehicle's capabilities in a controlled flight.
• Splashdown: The mission concluded with the vehicle splashing down in the Bay of Bengal, providing data for further analysis.

Significance

• The Agnilet engine's successful demonstration paves the way for further advancements in 3D-printed rocket technology.
• The use of 3D printing in rocket engine manufacturing can significantly lower production costs and time, making space access more affordable for various stakeholders.

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Sources:

IndiaToday

PRACTICE QUESTION Q.  The successful launch of the Agnibaan SOrTeD-01 mission represents a significant achievement for India's private space industry. Discuss. (250 Words)