ISRO opens its doors to two space technology start-ups. Here’s what they’ll put to the test

ISRO recently signed framework Memorandums of Understanding with Agnikul Cosmos and Skyroot Aerospace to gain access to their facilities and expertise in the development and testing of space launch vehicles.

The Space Division has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) framework agreement with the space technology start-up Agnikul Cosmos to grant access to Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) facilities and expertise for the development and testing of space launch vehicle systems and subsystems.

Multiple tests and installations are being conducted at various ISRO facilities to test and qualify their one-piece, 3D print, semicryogenic, and other systems under the terms of the contract. The MoU allows Agnikul to use the Indian Space Agency’s technical expertise to test and qualify their vehicle systems and subsystems for space launch.

Agnikul Cosmos joined hands with EOS India

Last month, Agnikul Cosmos announced a partnership with EOS India, a 3D press company, to expand its 3D rocket and sub-system synergies. The startup plans to install an EOS M400-4 printer on its premises and is relying on EOS for technical assistance to promote 3D printing of rocket engines, allowing it to control the entire rocket engine production process in-house. EOS would assist and support Agnikul in acquiring previously successful hardware by providing training, process know-how, and best practises.

“We have the honour to sign this memorandum of understanding with the Ministry of Space to formally allow us to carry on our testing plans at ISRO,” Agnikul said in a statement following the signing of the MoU. “The low earth orbit appears to be within reach from this level of government assistance.”

Earlier this year, a Chennai-based space technology startup raised $11 million in Series A funding from institutional and angel investors.

ISRO signed a similar Skyroot Aerospace Framework MoU last week, allowing a Hyderabad-based launch company to conduct several tests and gain access to facilities at various ISRO facilities, as well as use ISRO’s technical expertise to test and qualify its space-launcher systems and sub-systems.

ISRO Chairman K Sivan opened on Wednesday the Bellatrix Aerospace Spacecraft Research Laboratory, which is based on the Indian Institute of Science campus in Bengaluru. In-house facilities for the development and testing of electric and green chemical propulsion technologies according to ISRO are in this private propulsion laboratory.