Chennai-based space technology startup Agnikul Cosmos has declared its commitment to developing fully reusable rockets, marking a significant step in making space access more affordable and sustainable.
The announcement came during the International Astronautical Congress 2025 in Sydney, where the company outlined its plans to scale up toward commercially viable reusable launch vehicles. This move aligns with the event’s theme of “Sustainable Space: Resilient Earth.”
Proprietary Technology Foundation
Agnikul Cosmos has already secured patents across the United States, Europe, and India for its multi-purpose and reusability technologies. The startup plans to utilize its patented combined launch vehicle and satellite systems, along with semi-cryogenic propellant technology, as the backbone of its rocket reusability mission.
The company previously achieved a milestone by successfully test-launching the Agnibaan rocket, which features the world’s first single-piece 3D printed semi-cryogenic engine. This controlled-ascent launch used proprietary autopilot algorithms, demonstrating the technical capabilities that will support future reusable spaceflight development.
Cost-Effective Space Access
The move toward reusability addresses growing demands for affordable satellite deployment services. According to Srinath Ravichandran, co-founder and CEO of Agnikul Cosmos, the company has designed its vehicles with affordability and flexibility as core principles from the beginning.
“We have consistently designed our vehicles to ensure that affordability and flexibility are never afterthoughts but are built in from day one,” Ravichandran stated. He credited supportive policies and technical assistance for enabling the company to pursue rocket stage recovery and reuse technologies.
Moin SPM, co-founder and COO of Agnikul Cosmos, emphasized the strategic importance of this direction. “Our newly planned strategy enables cost efficiencies at scale, allowing us to deliver launch services at globally competitive prices for all small satellite missions,” he explained.
Accelerating Development
Following its successful controlled-ascent launch, Agnikul Cosmos is now fast-tracking development efforts to validate commercially valuable reusable spaceflight technologies. The company aims to make space access more sustainable while maintaining competitive pricing in the small satellite launch market.
The startup’s focus on reusability reflects broader industry trends toward reducing space mission costs and environmental impact through rocket recovery and reuse programs.
