Agnikul Cosmos has announced the appointment of former Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) Chairman Dr S Somanath as an Observer on its Board of Directors. His appointment comes as the Chennai-based private space company prepares for Mission 02, its next orbital launch that aims to demonstrate two major technologies—a controlled recovery of an orbital-class rocket booster and the conversion of the rocket’s upper stage into an operational platform in orbit.
Mission 02 is expected to mark a significant milestone for India’s private space sector. The mission will use a two-stage Agnibaan launch vehicle, with the first-stage booster attempting a controlled descent for ocean recovery after separation. The upper stage will continue functioning in orbit after deploying its payload, showcasing Agnikul’s patented convertible upper-stage technology. The company holds intellectual property rights for this architecture in India, the United States and Europe. These capabilities are regarded as key technologies for the future of space transportation, as reusable launch systems continue to transform the economics of satellite launches worldwide.
Welcoming Dr Somanath to the board, Srinath Ravichandran, Co-Founder and CEO of Agnikul Cosmos, said his experience in developing India’s launch vehicle programmes would provide valuable guidance as the company undertakes one of its most advanced missions. He noted that Dr. Somanath’s leadership across programmes such as LVM3, SSLV, Gaganyaan, Chandrayaan-3 and Aditya-L1 brings significant technical expertise to Agnikul’s long-term plans.
Moin SPM, Co-Founder and Chief Operating Officer, said Mission 02 involves advanced work across propulsion, guidance, avionics and structural systems. He added that the company’s Agnite semi-cryogenic engine, successfully validated earlier this year, forms a key part of the mission, while Dr. Somanath’s experience in integrating complex launch systems will strengthen the programme.
Commenting on his appointment, Dr Somanath said Agnikul has built a strong engineering foundation backed by innovative technologies, including indigenous semi-cryogenic propulsion and 3D-printed engines. He said Mission 02 represents an important technological step for India’s growing private space ecosystem and expressed confidence in the team’s approach.
The announcement follows Agnikul’s participation in Bharat Innovates 2026, held in Nice, France, where the company showcased its launch capabilities before global industry leaders. During the event, Agnikul also signed collaboration agreements with Finland-based ICEYE and France’s Safran to support future commercial and technology development. Together with Dr Somanath’s appointment, these developments reinforce Agnikul Cosmos’ efforts to expand its global partnerships while advancing India’s capabilities in next-generation launch technologies.
