India's Aerospace Startup Agnikul Postpones Inaugural Rocket Launch Once More

Indian aerospace startup Agnikul Cosmos has faced another setback as it delays the inaugural launch of its Agnibaan rocket yet again. The decision to postpone the liftoff came after encountering technical issues during pre-launch checks, as reported by sources at the launch site on Saturday.

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This marks the second time Agnikul Cosmos has deferred the Agnibaan launch, following a previous delay last month without providing specific reasons for the setback.

The delay is a significant setback for India's ambitions in the private space industry, especially as Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasizes the importance of privatization and commercialization in the country's space sector. Agnikul Cosmos had been poised to conduct India's second private rocket launch, following the successful 2022 launch of the Vikram-S rocket by startup Skyroot.

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The Agnibaan rocket, designed by Agnikul Cosmos, is a two-stage launch vehicle capable of carrying payloads weighing up to 300 kg into orbit at an altitude of approximately 700 km. This mission holds great technological significance for India, as it would mark the country's first successful flight of a semi-cryogenic engine, utilizing a combination of liquid and gas propellant.

The delay underscores the challenges and complexities involved in the private space industry, particularly in ensuring the reliability and safety of rocket launches. The burgeoning demand for small satellite launches, driven by various companies worldwide, highlights the critical role played by ventures like Agnikul Cosmos in advancing technological capabilities and expanding access to space-based services.

Despite the setback, Agnikul Cosmos remains committed to its mission of revolutionizing the space industry and contributing to India's space exploration efforts.

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