Agnikul Cosmos, a Chennai-based space Startup, has made history by successfully launching India’s first 3D printed rocket engine. The launch occurred on May 30, 2024, and represented a significant development in India’s space technology. This development illustrates the country’s developing capability for speedy and cost-effective rocket assembly.
Agnikul Cosmos has revolutionised rocket manufacturing by utilising 3D printing technology to reduce both production time and costs. The 3D printed rocket engine not only represents technological progress, but it also helps India’s position in the global space sector.
“Elated at the successful launch of Agnibaan SOrTeD by Agnikul Cosmos! A historic moment for India’s space sector. Powered by the world’s first single piece 3D printed semi-cryogenic engine, this achievement showcases the brilliance of our young innovators.”
– Dr. Pawan Goenka, chairman of IN-SPACe responsible for coordinating with the private space sector.
Launch of India’s First 3D Printed Rocket Engine

The launch was successful and took place from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota. The mission completed all of its goals in a controlled vertical rise, reaching an altitude of five miles before safely dropping into the Bay of Bengal. This launch, Agnikul’s fifth attempt, demonstrates the company’s perseverance and commitment to advancing space technology.
Srinath Ravichandran, co-founder and CEO of Agnikul Cosmos, emphasised the significance of this achievement, noting that the data gathered will be critical in the development of their upcoming orbital launch vehicle, Agnibaan, which is planned to be ready early next year.
Agnikul Cosmos has successfully launched India’s first 3D printed rocket engine, ushering in a new era in the country’s aerospace business. The 3D printed engine, a semi-cryogenic engine, has several advantages over conventional engines.
“Agnikul’s mission achieved its intended altitude of about 8 kilometers before falling into the sea. This is the culmination of 1000s of hours of reviews and hard work by the team. We are blessed to have had the opportunity and the full support of IN-SPACe and ISRO to design and build original space worthy hardware in India.”
– Srinath Ravichandran, Co-founder and CEO of Agnikul Cosmos
The semi-cryogenic engine uses refined kerosene instead of liquid hydrogen, requiring less storage space and operating at normal temperatures, hence increasing cargo capacity and thrust. This technological innovation enables Agnikul to construct rocket engines in 75 hours, a huge reduction from the customary 10 to 12 weeks, thereby setting a new industry norm.
Agnikul’s 3D printed rocket engine represents a significant advancement in India’s space exploration efforts. The engine’s design reduces the number of parts from 14 to one, avoiding 19 weld joints and saving greatly on raw materials. This efficiency not only reduces production time by 60%, but also improves rocket dependability and performance. The success of this mission highlights Agnikul Cosmos’ role in fostering innovation and guiding India’s private space sector to greater heights.
Agnikul Cosmos’ successful launch of India’s first 3D printed rocket engine marks a watershed moment in space exploration. As the firm continues to innovate, it will play an important role in expanding India’s space technology capabilities. With continuing developments, Agnikul Cosmos will make important contributions to future space missions, cementing India’s status as a global space industry leader.
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