Astrophel Aerospace, a Pune-based deep-tech space startup, has raised ₹6.84 crore (~$800,000) in a pre-seed funding round led by a consortium of individuals and angel venture firms.
The funds raised will be used to develop a reusable semi-cryogenic launch vehicle, scale its in-house R&D to develop missile-grade guidance systems and components. The company anticipates having a working, reusable prototype ready for testing within the next 24 to 36 months.
Founded in 2022 by Suyash Bafna, Immanuel Louis and Md Taj Baba, Astrophel Aerospace is an Indian deep tech space startup developing affordable, dedicated launch vehicles for small satellites, powered by semi-cryogenic propulsion systems.
Its flagship Astra C1 series and Potentia engine position it among the few Indian private companies to have independently built and successfully test-fired a semi-cryogenic engine in August 2023.
The company has developed in-house capabilities across throttleable engine valves, regenerative nozzle design, cryogenic subsystems, and real-time avionics software.
Astrophel Aerospace is leveraging a modular, systems-first approach inspired by auto manufacturing best practices to build its Potentia C1U engine. It has also signed an MoU with ISRO for collaborative R&D and testing campaigns.
Astrophel Aerospace is also collaborating with a listed Indian manufacturer to co-produce cryogenic valves, with dual-use potential in both commercial and defence applications.
Astrophel is planning full orbital missions from Indian launchpads utilising reusable launchers to capitalise on the potential of India’s space industry, projected to reach USD 44 billion by 2033.
Suyash Bafna, Co-founder, Astrophel Aerospace, said, “We believe that India’s private space sector is ready to tackle high-complexity, deep-tech challenges in aerospace. We’re building reusable systems and precision components that reduce costs and will usher in a new age of space access for India.”
Immanuel Louis, Co-founder, Astrophel Aerospace, said, “Reusable rockets, turbopump-fed engines and missile-grade guidance systems are among some of the toughest challenges in aerospace today. The funding will enable us to deep-dive into development while staying lean and execution-focused.”
