Astrophel Aerospace, a Pune-based deeptech space startup, has secured Rs 6.84 crore (approximately $800,000) in a pre-seed funding round. The investment was led by a group of angel investors and early-stage venture firms. Founded in 2022 by Suyash Bafna and Immanuel Louis, Astrophel is developing reusable semi-cryogenic launch vehicles and missile-grade guidance systems.
The company achieved a significant milestone last year by successfully test-firing a semi-cryogenic engine on a budget of just Rs 6 lakh, without any prior institutional funding. Astrophel’s flagship engine, the Potentia C1U, is central to its Astra C1 series rockets, designed for cost-effective and reusable deployment of small satellites. The startup employs a vertically integrated model, using techniques like 3D printing and systems-first assembly to design, engineer, and test propulsion systems in-house.
The newly raised capital will be used to expand Astrophel’s R&D team and scale manufacturing capabilities.
Astrophel’s reusable rocket development
The company aims to build and test a working prototype of its reusable launch vehicle within the next 24 to 36 months.
Astrophel also plans to develop dual-use components, such as cryogenic valves, in partnership with a publicly listed Indian manufacturer. “We believe Indian startups are now capable of tackling complex aerospace challenges,” said Suyash Bafna, Co-founder of Astrophel. “By focusing on reusable and modular systems, we hope to lower the cost barrier to space.”
Astrophel recently signed a memorandum of understanding with the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) to collaborate on co-development and testing campaigns.
This partnership further integrates the young firm into India’s expanding space ecosystem. As India’s space economy is projected to grow to $44 billion by 2033, companies like Astrophel are stepping into the spotlight. With its innovative rocket propulsion technologies and strategic collaborations, Astrophel is shaping up to be a crucial player in the country’s next phase of space exploration.
