Longevity for satellites: Chennai-based OrbitAID completes second zero-gravity mission for refuelling
This follows the success of the Chennai-based space startup's first demonstration conducted six months ago. A key highlight of the mission is the validation of OrbitAID's proprietary docking interface, SIDRP, which has now reached Technology Readiness Level 7 (TRL 7), paving the way for real-world deployment by the end of 2025.
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Chennai-based space startup OrbitAID Aerospace has completed its second zero-gravity mission in the development of on-orbit satellite servicing and refuelling technologies, aimed at extending the lifespan of satellites. The mission builds on the success of its first demonstration conducted just six months ago.According to a Markets Research Future report, the global in-orbit refuelling market was estimated at $2.35 billion in 2024 and is projected to grow to $3.67 billion by 2034.Founded in 2021 by Indian Institute of Science alumni Sakthikumar R, Nikhil Balasubramanian, and Mano Balaji K, OrbitAID is among a handful of startups globally experimenting with in-space refuelling. In its latest mission, the startup achieved key breakthroughs, including successful propellant transfer in microgravity, advanced pose estimation for rendezvous and proximity operations (RPO), and seamless docking and undocking manoeuvres, the startup said.'Our second zero-g mission has validated the core technologies required for future autonomous servicing missions,' Sakthikumar R, founder of OrbitAID, told ET. 'Each step we take brings us closer to enabling routine and affordable in-space logistics,' he added.A key highlight of the mission is the validation of OrbitAID's proprietary docking interface, SIDRP, which has now reached Technology Readiness Level 7 (TRL 7), paving the way for real-world deployment by the end of 2025. TRL is a standardised framework used to assess the maturity of a technology.OrbitAID plans to build a suite of in-orbit services, ranging from refuelling to repositioning and repairs, with its first in-space demonstration mission scheduled around December. Sakthikumar said that while the Indian space ecosystem is still in its early stage, its target clients include European satellite operators, government space agencies, defence organisations, and telecom providers.The startup recently raised $1.5 million from Unicorn India Ventures to fast-track its technology roadmap and mission readiness.
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