Suborbital Flight Pushed Back But Progress Continues For Indian Private Space Sector
Agnikul Cosmos, the pioneering rocket startup based out of India, has announced a minor delay to the launch of its suborbital rocket. In a tweet, the IIT Madras incubated venture stated that the launch of its Single Stage SubOrbital Technology Demonstrator (SOrTeD) has been pushed back to a later date as a precaution following some minor observations during full countdown rehearsals.
While this comes as a minor setback, the company assured supporters that the new launch date will be communicated soon. They also thanked everyone for their encouragement and backing as Agnikul works to prove out critical rocket technologies through real flight tests. This first test of the Agnilet engine and other systems onboard the small rocket was highly anticipated in the space sector.
Some key aspects about the SOrTeD launch include it being the 2nd privately developed rocket to take flight in India after Skyroot Aerospace. Another highlight is that the rocket will utilize a private launch platform established by Agnikul at the Sriharikota spaceport instead of guide rails. This vertically launched vehicle was expected to reach an apogee of 20km before splashing back down to earth.
Though a delay, cautious approach to any observations during rehearsals bodes well for Agnikul’s focus on safety. Their innovative 3D printed single piece engine also promises efficiencies if the mission is successful. Overall, the postponing retains importance of pushing boundaries in line with growing private space industry ambitions in India.
