Astrophel Aerospace
Overview
Astrophel Aerospace is an innovative space technology startup based in Pune, India, that focuses on building cost-effective, reusable launch vehicles for small satellite deployments. Founded in January 2022, the company was established by Suyash Bafna, Immanuel Louis, and MD Taj Baba. In its initial funding round, Astrophel Aerospace raised approximately ₹6.84 crore (around $800,000) to further develop its core technologies, which include semi-cryogenic engine propulsion systems. The company's unique approach leverages frugal engineering methodologies to disrupt the traditional aerospace market, aiming to make space access more affordable.
Recent Developments
- July 2025: Astrophel Aerospace raised ₹6.84 crore in pre-seed funding from a consortium of angel investors and venture capitalists, which will be used to develop a reusable semi-cryogenic launch vehicle and expand its R&D capabilities in missile-grade guidance systems.
- July 2025: The company has entered an MoU with the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) for joint research and development, allowing access to ISRO's facilities for testing and collaborations on co-development projects.
- 2024: Astrophel Aerospace successfully test-fired its semi-cryogenic engine, Potentia C1U, achieving significant milestones with minimal funding of ₹6 lakh ($7,000) internally allocated, prior to raising external capital.
- 2023: The startup was one of the few private firms in India to independently achieve a successful engine test fire, establishing its role as a key player in the Indian space tech ecosystem by applying advanced 3D printing and modular manufacturing techniques.
Company Information
| Attribute | Information |
|---|---|
| Founding Date | January 2022 |
| Headquarters | Pune, India |
| Founders | Suyash Bafna, Immanuel Louis, MD Taj Baba |
| Revenue | Not publicly disclosed |
| Profits | Not publicly disclosed |
| Key Investors | Angel investors and venture firms |
| Industry | Aerospace and Defense |
| Number of Employees | Approximately 12 |
Early History
Astrophel Aerospace emerged during the challenging times of the COVID-19 lockdown, when Suyash Bafna, a third-year engineering student at the time, designed a rocket injector and sent it to the ISRO Chairman. Encouraged by a positive response, he teamed up with Immanuel Louis, an aerospace engineering graduate from MIT Chennai, and MD Taj Baba, a thermal systems expert. The company officially started operations in 2022 with a focus on developing semi-cryogenic engines capable of launching small satellites cost-effectively. Early on, the founders applied a vertically integrated approach, designing, testing, and engineering all systems in-house.
Company Profile and Achievements
Astrophel Aerospace operates on a vertically integrated model, meaning all aspects from engine design to testing are conducted in-house. This reduces dependency on external suppliers and accelerates development cycles. The Potentia C1U is the flagship engine, known for being semi-cryogenic and built using modular design inspired by automotive manufacturing practices, along with advanced 3D printing techniques. Key achievements include:
- Successfully test-firing a semi-cryogenic engine with an internal budget of just ₹6 lakh.
- Signing an MoU with ISRO for collaborative testing and research.
- Developing the Astra C1 series rockets designed for affordable, reusable deployments of payloads to low earth orbit.
- Implementing a systems-first approach to aerospace technology development, emphasizing lean manufacturing principles.
Current Operations and Market Position
Astrophel Aerospace is at the forefront of India's burgeoning private space sector. By developing its reusable rocket technology, the company aims to provide affordable options for launching small satellites, addressing the increasing global demand projected to grow to over 8,500 small satellites by 2033. The company’s operations focus on precision components and missile-grade guidance systems. The strategic MoU with ISRO bolsters Astrophel’s capabilities by providing access to world-class facilities for testing. The competitive landscape includes notable Indian startups like Skyroot Aerospace and Agnikul Cosmos, but Astrophel differentiates itself with its focus on frugality and innovation.
Conclusion
Astrophel Aerospace, though young, is rapidly establishing itself as a cornerstone of India's private space sector. Through frugal innovation and smart partnerships, like the one with ISRO, the company is not only aiming to revolutionize satellite launches but also contribute to the broader industry goal of reducing the cost of space access. As the global space economy expands, Astrophel’s focus on reusable and affordable technologies positions it as a potential leader in the industry, making space ever more accessible to a range of customers, from NGOs to international media organizations.