Archive · 18 Jul 2026
Somanath Joins Agnikul for Mission 02
Agnikul Cosmos, a leading private space company in India, has appointed S Somanath, the former chairman of ISRO, as an observer on its board.
This comes as Agnikul prepares for Mission 02, which aims to recover an orbital-class rocket booster and extend the rocket's upper stage into an on-orbit platform.
This mission is significant because it represents India's first serious attempt at rocket reusability, a technology that has changed the global space industry.
Agnikul has also recently formed partnerships with ICEYE and Safran, showcasing its growing international presence.
The company believes that Somanath's expertise will strengthen their engineering program and help them achieve this complex mission.
S Somanath, former ISRO chairman, joins Agnikul Cosmos as an observer on its board of directors.
Agnikul prepares for Mission 02, aiming to recover an orbital-class rocket booster and extend the upper stage into an on-orbit platform.
Mission 02 will demonstrate India's first orbital-class rocket booster recovery and an upper stage capable of extended on-orbit operations.
Agnikul has formed partnerships with ICEYE and Safran, showcasing its growing international presence.
Somanath's expertise in launch systems and reusability is expected to strengthen Agnikul's engineering program.
- Who
- S Somanath, former ISRO chairman, and Agnikul Cosmos
- What
- Somanath joins Agnikul's board ahead of Mission 02, which aims to recover an orbital-class rocket booster and extend a rocket's upper stage into an on-orbit platform.
- When
- The appointment and mission are imminent, with recent partnerships and preparations underway.
- Where
- India, with international partnerships in France and Finland.
- Why
- To advance India's capabilities in rocket reusability and strengthen Agnikul's engineering program.
Proponents of Reusability
Skeptics of Reusability
Technological Feasibility
Proponents of Reusability
Proponents believe that reusability is achievable and will revolutionize the space industry, making launches more cost-effective and sustainable.
Skeptics of Reusability
Skeptics argue that the technology is still in its infancy and may not be as reliable or cost-effective as claimed.
Market Demand
Proponents of Reusability
Proponents argue that the market is increasingly demanding reusable rockets due to their economic benefits.
Skeptics of Reusability
Skeptics believe that the market may not be ready for reusable rockets and that traditional expendable rockets may still be more reliable.
- Company
- Agnikul Cosmos
- Mission
- Mission 02
- Key Figure
- S Somanath
- Technology
- 3D-printed semi-cryogenic engine
- Partnerships
- ICEYE, Safran
- Location
- India
- Event
- Bharat Innovates 2026