India’s formal space programme has achieved numerous successes through the State-owned Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO). From indigenous launch vehicle development to bringing India’s own Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) services online through Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System (NavIC), to scientific and exploratory missions to outer space – the list of ISRO’s achievements is extensive.

Many startups now looking to exploit the opportunities in the growing global space markets have emerged within the Indian space domain. They are developing visionary technologies, products and services, but lack a strong footing when it comes to financial, regulatory and policy support.

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SpaceTech Solutions

Winners

Skyroot Aerospace Private Limited Team

Winner | SpaceTech Solutions

Skyroot Aerospace Private Limited

DIPP25890

Skyroot believes a new Space Age is kicking off, and snagging the extraordinary opportunities in space depends on robust transportation systems from Earth to orbit. Their Vikram launch vehicle, when operational, is expected to be one of the most cost-effective small satellite launch vehicles in the world, positioning India for interstellar dominance.

Product summary

It’s a series of launch vehicles covering a wide range (300 to 700 kgs) of payload carrying capacities to low-Earth orbit. Not only are they affordable and easily mass-produced, but the upper stage of the rocket is capable of moving itself out of orbit on mission completion, thereby leaving no space debris.

Impact

  • Upper stage liquid engines are fully 3D printed, cutting costs by 40 percent.
  • Skyroot is also developing a futuristic, highly efficient LNG/LOX Cryogenic liquid engine that uses greener, more sustainable rocket fuel.

Website

https://www.skyroot.in

Dhruva Space Private Limited Team

Co-Winner | Satellite Technologies

Dhruva Space Private Limited

DIPP31470

Dhruva Space builds small satellite constellations for Earth observation and other scientific applications. Instead of hiring multiple entities for designing and building a satellite, launch liaising and for ground stations to communicate with the satellite, Dhruva Space's constellation of low-Earth orbit satellites reduces the cost and time taken to set up the necessary infrastructure. They provide end-to-end solutions for anyone looking to launch a satellite into space

Product summary

Dhruva space designs the mission (satellites, orbit, constellation) based on the customer's requirements, builds the satellites, finds the right launch provider for the budget, obtains required orbital timelines, and provides ground station support, either using their in-house infrastructure or setting it up as required. They’re also developing satellites with de-orbiting functionality.

Impact

  • Their space stack could enable the 108 countries with no space assets to have satellites in orbit.
  • Plan on setting up an Assembly Integration and Testing (AIT) facility for manufacturing of satellites in India.

Support and recognition

Invited by European Space Agency's Business Incubation Centre, Austria, for incubation along with a grant.

Website

https://www.dhruvaspace.com

Bellatrix Aerospace Private Limited Team

Co-Winner | Satellite Technologies

Bellatrix Aerospace Private Limited

DIPP2833

Bellatrix Aerospace is working to drive down the cost of access to space by focusing on advanced propulsion systems for satellites and reusable micro launch vehicles. Through indigenous design, development and manufacturing, Bellatrix is able to provide state-of-the-art technology at a fraction of the cost.

Product summary

Bellatrix is pioneering the development of a fully reusable micro launch vehicle, Chetak, capable of ferrying 200kg payloads to space. This also involves developing a highly innovative methane-fueled engine, as well as electric propulsion systems. Chetak, would not only make it cheaper to launch microsatellites, but would also reduce the wait time involved for operators.

Impact

  • Bellatrix’s high-performance green propellant, Hydroxyl Ammonium Nitrate (HAN), offers 30% higher performance than traditional Hydrazine.
  • Their advanced electric propulsion systems, offers 10X more fuel efficiency, 3X more payload carrying capacity, and 2X reduction in mission cost.

Support and recognition

Bellatrix Aerospace is an IISc (SID) incubated company

Website

https://www.bellatrixaerospace.com

All Finalists

Name of Startup Category City State
SKYROOT AEROSPACE PRIVATE LIMITED Space Tech Solutions Hyderabad Telangana
DHRUVA SPACE PRIVATE LIMITED Space Tech Solutions Hyderabad Telangana
BELLATRIX AEROSPACE PRIVATE LIMITED Space Tech Solutions Mysore Karnataka
MANASTU SPACE TECHNOLOGIES PRIVATE LIMITED Space Tech Solutions Mumbai Maharashtra
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