The Technology Development Board (TDB), Department of Science and Technology (DST), on Monday, October 26, signed an agreement with Manastu Space Technologies Private Limited of Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra, for financial support of Rs 116 crore — yaani Rs 1.16 billion — under the Research Development and Innovation (RDI) Fund, IANS reported, citing the Ministry of Science and Technology.

Source: IANS via Hi India

The project, with a total cost of Rs 277.63 crore — yaani about Rs 278 crore — focuses on developing a scalable, integrated green propulsion system for satellites and launch vehicles across the 5 millinewton (mN) to 300 newton (N) thrust class. The programme aims to advance the technology from Technology Readiness Level (TRL)-6 to TRL-9, supporting further development, validation and deployment, and the support will be provided through Optionally Convertible Debt (OCD), according to the ministry statement reproduced by Hello Entrepreneurs.

Source: Hello Entrepreneurs

Manastu Space is developing an indigenous green propulsion system designed to provide a complete propulsion solution for satellites and launch vehicles. The technology uses a hydrogen peroxide-based green propellant with additives, supported by an integrated engine and catalyst system, and offers improved performance and cost efficiency while reducing the operational challenges associated with conventional propellants.

The project also covers propulsion engines and propellant feed systems, including an ultra-high-temperature ceramic catalyst designed for reliable operation under demanding conditions. Its scalable architecture can serve needs ranging from small satellites to higher-thrust systems, News On Radar reported.

Source: News On Radar

"Indigenous propulsion technologies are important for strengthening India's capabilities across the space value chain. As the country's space ecosystem continues to expand, there is a growing need for propulsion systems that combine performance, reliability, operational safety and cost efficiency," TDB Secretary Rajesh Kumar Pathak said. Manastu Space's Co-Founder and CTO said the TDB support would help advance the technology through further development, integration and validation, towards a scalable platform addressing the need for safer and more sustainable propellant systems.