Manastu Space: Pioneering Clean Propulsion Tech for a Sustainable Orbit – by Ritwaj Ranjan, Space News Contributor – India, Interplanetary.tv – Photo credit: Indian Startup News/Manastu Space – Video credit: ISRO/Manastu Space (24 April 2020) – Manastu Space, a dynamic startup based in Mumbai and co-founded by Tushar Jadhav and Ashtesh Kumar, is making waves in the satellite propulsion arena with its innovative green propulsion systems and ambitious vision for in-orbit refueling. Emerging from the entrepreneurial ecosystem at IIT Bombay, Manastu Space stands out as one of India’s most exciting private space initiatives, dedicated to sustainability and cost-effectiveness in orbital operations.

At the heart of Manastu Space’s innovation is its green propulsion system, which swaps out traditional hydrazine—a notoriously toxic and carcinogenic substance—for a proprietary, less harmful monopropellant. This shift not only boosts safety during satellite assembly and launches but also improves fuel efficiency by up to 25%. This means satellites can either extend their time in orbit or carry heavier payloads. Plus, the propulsion system is said to deliver a higher specific impulse, making station-keeping and deorbiting maneuvers more effective. 

Manastu Space Milestones:

*2017 – Founded by Tushar Jadhav and Ashtesh Kumar at IIT Bombay

*2020 – Secured BIRAC and ISRO funding

*2022 – Developed first hot-fire test for green propulsion

*2023 – Signed tech development deal with ISRO

*2024 – Announced prototype for in-orbit refueling system.

The founders, Jadhav and Kumar, both IIT Bombay alumni, recognized the dangers of hydrazine and the urgent need for eco-friendly alternatives while working on satellite projects. With backing from BIRAC, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), and various venture funds, the startup has already caught the eye of defense agencies and commercial satellite operators.

Manastu is also diving into in-orbit refueling technology—a game-changer that could extend satellite lifespans and enhance servicing capabilities. This means satellites won’t be constrained by their onboard fuel anymore; they could be refueled in space, significantly cutting operational costs and tackling the growing issue of space debris in low-Earth orbit.

In March 2023, Manastu Space took a significant step forward by signing a technology development agreement with ISRO, further solidifying the strength of its innovative approach.

— Ritwaj Ranjan

About the Author.

Ritwaj Ranjan is a full-stack web and mobile applications software engineer from Bangalore, India, and, space news contributor to Interplanetary Television. With a strong foundation in frontend and backend development technologies, he has worked at Othor.ai and Bhopal. He has designed and deployed over 20 user-centric interfaces with React.js, resulting in a 30% increase in customer satisfaction scores. Ranjan has also led a team in website development, resulting in a 40% increase in client customization efficiency.