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Context
The successful test flight of ‘Agnibaan’, a rocket developed by the start-up Agnikul Cosmos, marks a significant milestone in India’s space technology. This event underscores the growing role of private entities in space exploration and the potential implications for India’s commercial launch services.
Agnikul Cosmos and the ‘Agnibaan’ Rocket
- Introduction to Agnikul Cosmos: Agnikul Cosmos is a start-up that recently conducted the first test flight of its rocket ‘Agnibaan’. The flight was the company’s fifth attempt, with the first four being called off due to suboptimal launch conditions.
- Features of ‘Agnibaan’: ‘Agnibaan’ is a two-stage, 14-tonne launch vehicle designed to lift small satellites to low-earth orbits. Both stages are powered by bespoke semi-cryogenic engines. Many of the vehicle’s components, including the engines, are 3D-printed.
- Implications for India’s Commercial Launch Services: With the test flight, Agnikul took ‘Agnibaan’ on its first steps towards being a full-fledged launch vehicle. This development could expand India’s commercial launch services offering, currently dominated by the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) and soon to be joined by the Small Satellite Launch Vehicle, both of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO).
Prospects Beyond Commercial Fortune
- Shared Technical Know-How: ISRO and/or scientists trained there have shared technical know-how and provided physical systems for many private missions, which these startups are now testing. This collaboration could potentially accelerate innovation in the sector.
- Lessons for ISRO: ISRO has been testing a semi-cryogenic engine of its own that could draw from lessons learnt at Agnikul. The government must ensure that the corresponding bureaucratic and legal frameworks encourage the free flow of knowledge.
- Benefits of Innovation: In April, ISRO developed engine nozzles made of a carbon-carbon composite to replace the Columbium alloy nozzles on the PSLV’s fourth stage. This switch increased PSLV’s payload capacity by 15 kg, demonstrating the benefits of innovation in space technology.
UPSC Mains Questions
Q. Discuss the role of private sector participation in advancing India’s space technology and its potential impact on the economy. How does collaboration with ISRO enhance these efforts?
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