Astrophel Aerospace Signs MoU With IN-SPACe For Semi-Cryogenic Engine Development

Astrophel Aerospace has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre (IN-SPACe) to access ISRO facilities for technical reviews, system-level testing, and qualification support. The agreement covers semi-cryogenic propulsion systems, including turbopumps and engine modules.

The MoU enables collaboration with ISRO experts through a Joint Project Implementation Plan for design validation and testing campaigns. The signing took place in the presence of IN-SPACe Chairman Pawan Goenka and Prafulla Kumar Jain, Director of Programme Management & Authorisation at IN-SPACe.

The agreement follows Astrophel’s recent fundraise of INR 6.84 crore to support the development of a reusable launch hopper powered by its Astra series launch vehicle. The company also plans to raise an additional USD 5 million to accelerate reusable rocket engine development and expand production of cryogenic components. Alongside propulsion systems, Astrophel is developing subsystems such as valves, turbopumps, and avionics systems, which it states have applications in clean energy, industrial gas systems, defence, and other energy-related sectors.

Astrophel reported that it successfully tested a semi-cryogenic rocket engine without external funding, completing an open-cycle engine test-firing on 15 August 2023 at a cost of INR 6 lakh. The company is preparing for its first suborbital launch and targets delivery of a fully reusable hopper prototype within 24 to 36 months.

Astrophel Aerospace, based in Pune, is a private space technology company working on semi-cryogenic propulsion and reusable launch vehicle systems. Its team includes professionals with prior experience at ISRO, DRDO, and HAL.