TDB-DST signs agreement with Agnikul Cosmos for ₹200 crore RDI support to develop fully reusable Agnibaan launch vehicle

Key Highlights:

• The Technology Development Board (TDB), Department of Science & Technology (DST), has signed an agreement with Agnikul Cosmos Private Limited.
• This agreement provides ₹200 crore financial support from the Research Development and Innovation (RDI) Fund.
• The support is for developing Agnibaan RLV, a fully reusable launch vehicle.
• Funding is provided through Optionally Convertible Debentures (OCD).

Detailed Insights:

• The project aims to advance the technology readiness level of Agnibaan RLV from TRL-4 to TRL-8.
• Agnibaan RLV is designed for full-system reusability, aiming for high-frequency, repeatable launches, and reduced costs.
• Its architecture includes a lightweight upper stage and a semi-cryogenic liquid propulsion system capable of deep throttling and restart.
• Agnikul Cosmos previously developed the Agnibaan orbital launch vehicle and the Agnilet engine, a 3D-printed rocket engine.
• This initiative aligns with the RDI Fund's priority area of advanced and reusable launch vehicles and propulsion innovation in space technologies.
• The program is crucial for strengthening India's indigenous capabilities in advanced space transportation systems.

Scientific/Technical Concepts Involved:

• Reusable Launch Vehicle (RLV): A space launch system designed to be recovered and reused, reducing launch costs and increasing frequency.
• Technology Readiness Level (TRL): A scale from 1 to 9 indicating the maturity of a technology, from basic research to flight-proven.
• Semi-cryogenic Liquid Propulsion System: Rocket engine using a liquid fuel (like kerosene) and a liquid oxygen oxidizer, operating at moderate cryogenic temperatures.
• Deep Throttling: The ability of a rocket engine to significantly reduce its thrust output while maintaining stable operation.