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OrbitAID co-founders Nikhil Balasubramanian and Sakthikumar R
Chennai-based spacetech startup OrbitAID has raised $1.5 million in a pre-seed funding round led by Unicorn India Ventures, with participation from TANSIM (Government of Tamil Nadu).
OrbitAID plans to use the funds raised to conduct an in-space demonstration of docking and refuelling operations, expand facilities for on-orbit servicing operations, advance SIDRP (Standard Interface Docking and Refuelling Port) to commercial readiness and scale team capabilities to align with upcoming projects.
What does OrbitAID do?
Founded in 2021 by Sakthikumar R, Nikhil Balasubramanian and Mano Balaji K, OrbitAID is focused on advancing sustainable space operations through innovative on-orbit refuelling solutions and is actively forging ahead to create a network of cutting-edge fuel stations in space that are strategically positioned in various orbits.
The startup aims to increase the lifespan and functionality of satellites that will reduce space debris and enhance the long-term viability of space infrastructure with their product Standard Interface Docking and Refueling Port (SIDRP), which will elevate the accessibility and reliability of satellite refuelling operations to unprecedented levels.
Testing of patented SIDRP
OrbitAID recently successfully tested its patented SIDRP on a zero-gravity flight in Florida. The startup said the test further validated SIDRP’s capabilities for on-orbit mission-critical steps, including docking, refuelling, and proximity operations.
In the last 12 months, the company has achieved Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 7 for docking and refuelling tests and secured significant partnerships and collaborations.
Expanding advanced facilities
OrbitAID plans to expand and establish advanced facilities to further the development of its on-orbit servicing technologies.
Additionally, the startup is looking to grow its team and enhance its product portfolio with new innovations for sustainable space missions.
Leadership comments
"We are excited to have secured funding from Unicorn India Ventures and TANSIM. This milestone not only validates our vision but also reflects the dedication of our team in advancing sustainable space operations. With this funding, we will conduct our in-orbit demonstration in space for docking and refuelling, bringing us closer to revolutionizing satellite servicing and ensuring a sustainable future in space," said Sakthikumar R, Founder and CEO of OrbitAID Aerospace.
In the next 12 months, OrbitAID will conduct in-orbit demonstrations of docking and refuelling to validate the technology and operational readiness.
The startup also aims to achieve TRL 6 for the refuelable propulsion system, enhancing its readiness for deployment and secure a refueling contract from government or private space companies, establishing commercial viability.
Nikhil, Co-founder and COO of OrbitAID Aerospace, said," This funding is a significant step forward for OrbitAID. It enables us to bring our cutting edge technologies, like SIDRP, to the forefront of space innovation. The upcoming in-orbit demonstration will showcase our team's dedication to advancing sustainable and efficient satellite servicing solutions."