In a groundbreaking development for the Indian spacetech scene, three pioneering startups—Dhruva Space, Bellatrix Aerospace, and TM2Space—are gearing up to launch their payloads aboard the Indian Space Research Organisation’s (ISRO) upcoming Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) – C58 XPoSat Mission, scheduled for next Monday. The payloads are destined for the PSLV Orbital Experimental Module (POEM-3), lifting off from Sriharikota in Andhra Pradesh at 9:10 AM.
Hyderabad-based Dhruva Space is set to launch its LEAPTD (Launching Expeditions for Aspiring Technologies Technology Demonstrator), aiming to showcase microsatellite subsystems. Simultaneously, Bengaluru-based Bellatrix Aerospace will deploy two payloads: Rudra 0.3 HPGP, a green monopropellant thruster crucial for maintaining satellite orbits throughout their lifespan, and ARKA 200.
This collaborative venture follows a successful partnership in April 2023 when Bellatrix and Dhruva Space shared space in the POEM module of PSLV-C55 to launch their individual payloads. Additionally, Bengaluru-based TM2Space will contribute to the mission by launching the Radiation Shielding Experiments Module, designed to assess the effectiveness of tantalum coating in space.
India marked a historic milestone in 2022 with its inaugural private rocket launch by Skyroot, drawing global attention to the country’s growing prowess in the space industry. In October, Skyroot Aerospace unveiled its indigenously built rocket, Vikram-I, at its new headquarters.
The spacetech sector in India has witnessed remarkable growth, expanding from one startup in 2014 to a noteworthy count of 189 in 2023. According to Inc42’s Indian Spacetech Startup Landscape & Market Opportunity Report 2023, the spacetech sector is projected to reach a market size of $77 Bn by 2030.
Earlier this year, Skyroot Aerospace secured INR 225 Cr (approximately $27.5 Mn) in a Pre-Series C funding round led by Temasek. The funds are earmarked to drive the next phase of growth through increased investments in infrastructure, technology leadership, talent acquisition, and the enhancement of launch frequency and capabilities.
In a parallel stride, spacetech startup Agnikul, owning the first private launchpad within the ISRO campus, secured INR 200 Cr ($26.7 Mn) in October. The funding aims to accelerate the commercialization of existing technologies, marking yet another significant leap for the flourishing Indian spacetech ecosystem.
