Agnikul Cosmos Expands Global Reach with Alaska Aerospace Partnership
Agnikul Cosmos Private Ltd, a Chennai-based small rocket-maker, has taken a significant step towards its international launch ambitions by partnering with the Alaska Aerospace Corporation based in the United States. Let’s delve into the details of this strategic collaboration.
Partnership Details
Agnikul Cosmos announced the partnership via a tweet, highlighting its commitment to expanding its reach beyond Indian rocket ports. The agreement entails testing its ‘Agnibaan’ rocket from Alaska Aerospace’s Pacific Spaceport Complex Alaskar on Kodiak Island, USA. This move aligns with Agnikul Cosmos’ vision of offering its ‘MadeInIndia’ solution as a global offering to customers worldwide.
Advantages of High Latitude Launch Ports
Launching rockets from high latitude launch ports like Alaska Aerospace’s facility provides several advantages. Agnikul Cosmos emphasized the significance of this opportunity, citing the capability to carry 100 kg satellites into low earth orbit as a key aspect of its rocket development.
Launch Port Preferences and Global Expansion
While Agnikul Cosmos expresses a preference for Indian rocket ports such as Sriharikota or the upcoming Kulasekarapattinam facility, the company remains adaptable to customer preferences. This flexibility extends to shipping rockets to alternative launch locations if required, showcasing the company’s commitment to meeting diverse launch needs globally.
Previous Collaborations and Future Plans
The partnership with Alaska Aerospace follows Agnikul Cosmos’ memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Italian company Leaf Space for ground station services, indicating a broader strategy of international collaborations. The company’s CEO, Srinath Ravichandran, has outlined plans for additional launch ports worldwide, including a launch port in South Australia.
Looking ahead, Agnikul Cosmos aims to secure a satellite launch contract in 2021, with the debut launch of its ‘Agnibaan’ rocket scheduled for 2022. These milestones underscore the company’s ambitions to establish a strong presence in the global space launch market.
In conclusion, Agnikul Cosmos’ partnership with Alaska Aerospace marks a pivotal moment in its quest for global recognition and market expansion. With a focus on innovation, adaptability, and strategic collaborations, Agnikul Cosmos is poised to make significant strides in the space industry landscape in the coming years.
