In a significant step for India’s private space sector, Astrophel Aerospace is preparing to conduct suborbital test flights of its reusable rocket prototype, with the first launch targeted around Independence Day.
The prototype, known as a hopper, is 3 m long and weighs 200 kg. It is being fully designed, manufactured, and assembled at the company’s Pune facility. “This upcoming test will be one of the first instances of a privately developed reusable rocket prototype designed, manufactured, and tested entirely within India,” said Suyash Bafna.
Astrophel has already demonstrated early capabilities, including a cryogenic engine test conducted 3 years ago. The company has since developed an in-house portfolio of propulsion and cryogenic subsystems. Co-founder and COO Immanuel Louis said, “We will be able to develop subsystems at approximately 40% of the cost compared to global competitors.”
The startup raised $800,000 last year and plans to raise around $5 million in the next 3–6 months.
At present, many Indian space startups depend on imported components. Astrophel aims to address this by building and validating critical hardware in-house, while generating revenue through component sales and licensing partnerships. This approach helps reduce risk as the company works towards full orbital missions.
The upcoming test flights will also validate key systems, including cryogenic control valves, turbopumps, vacuum-insulated cryogenic storage tanks, and high-speed precision linear actuators.
Astrophel is backed by deep-tech investors and supported by the Government of India’s MeitY SAMRIDH initiative. It has also signed a Memorandum of Understanding with ISRO for access to testing infrastructure and technical support.
With an estimated 70,000 low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites expected to be launched over the next 5 years, demand for faster and more flexible launch solutions is set to rise. Reusability is expected to play a key role in enabling cost-effective space missions.
Also read: Viksit Workforce for a Viksit Bharat
Do Follow: The Mainstream LinkedIn | The Mainstream Facebook | The Mainstream Youtube | The Mainstream Twitter
About us:
The Mainstream is a premier platform delivering the latest updates and informed perspectives across the technology business and cyber landscape. Built on research-driven, thought leadership and original intellectual property, The Mainstream also curates summits & conferences that convene decision makers to explore how technology reshapes industries and leadership. With a growing presence in India and globally across the Middle East, Africa, ASEAN, the USA, the UK and Australia, The Mainstream carries a vision to bring the latest happenings and insights to 8.2 billion people and to place technology at the centre of conversation for leaders navigating the future.
