The Centre has announced a financial grant of Rs 116 crore to Manastu Space Technologies, a Mumbai-based company, to further develop its indigenous green propulsion technology for satellites and launch vehicles. This initiative is part of a broader effort to bolster India’s domestic capabilities in space technology.

The funding agreement was formalised by the Technology Development Board (TDB), which operates under the Department of Science and Technology (DST), as part of the government’s Research Development and Innovation (RDI) Fund. The total cost of the project is estimated at Rs 277.63 crore, with the financial assistance structured as optionally convertible debt.

This funding is expected to facilitate the development of a scalable propulsion system that employs hydrogen peroxide-based green propellant, along with an integrated engine and catalyst system. The propulsion technology aims to deliver thrust ranging from 5 millinewtons to 300 newtons, catering to various applications from small satellites to larger systems.

The primary objective of the project is to elevate the technology from Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 6 to TRL 9. Achieving TRL 9 signifies that the system is ready for deployment in its intended operational environment, marking a significant milestone in the project’s development.

Importance of Green Propulsion Tech

Conventional spacecraft propulsion systems often rely on propellants that are hazardous and necessitate specialised handling, storage, and ground infrastructure. Green propulsion technologies aim to mitigate these operational challenges while ensuring the performance required for space missions.

Manastu Space’s propulsion system utilises a hydrogen peroxide-based propellant that is activated by a catalyst, facilitating the chemical reaction necessary for thrust generation. The project encompasses the development of propulsion engines, propellant feed systems, and an ultra-high-temperature ceramic catalyst designed to function under rigorous conditions.

This technology has already undergone demonstrations in space, validating its potential. The latest funding will enable further engineering, system integration, testing, and validation to enhance the technology’s reliability and readiness for broader deployment. The scalable design of the propulsion system is intended to meet the needs of various spacecraft classes, potentially enhancing satellite manoeuvres and other applications where dependable and cost-effective propulsion is crucial.

Advancing Indigenous Space Tech

This project is situated within the deep technology sector, specifically focusing on space technology as a sub-sector. By promoting the domestic development of propulsion systems, the initiative aims to lessen reliance on imported technologies and fortify India’s standing within the global space industry supply chain.

Rajesh Kumar Pathak, secretary of the Technology Development Board, emphasised the importance of indigenous propulsion technologies for enhancing India’s capabilities throughout the space value chain. Pathak noted that the RDI Fund is designed to support technology-intensive projects.

These require sustained investment to transition from advanced development to deployment. The co-founder and chief technology officer of Manastu Space stated that the funding will facilitate the advancement of the company’s propulsion technology through further development, integration, and validation, with the goal of achieving TRL 9.

The Rs 116 crore investment represents a significant commitment to India’s burgeoning private space ecosystem. The development of indigenous propulsion technologies is anticipated to expand satellite capabilities and promote more sustainable access to space, thereby contributing to the overall growth of the sector.

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