Summary:
Indian space startup EtherealX has raised $5 million to develop fully reusable medium-lift launch vehicles.
The company aims to make satellite launches more affordable and efficient by eliminating the need for costly and time-consuming transportation of rockets.
EtherealX's approach to reusability is unique, as it aims to bring back both the upper stage and booster.
The company claims its technology can drastically reduce launch costs by offering prices between $350-$2,000 per kilogram.
EtherealX plans to test its technology demonstrator vehicle (TDV) in 2026 and begin manufacturing its own rocket engines in-house.
EtherealX: Taking on SpaceX with Fully Reusable Rockets
India's space startup, EtherealX, has raised $5 million in seed funding to develop fully reusable medium-lift launch vehicles. The company aims to make satellite launches more affordable and efficient by eliminating the need for costly and time-consuming transportation of rockets.
EtherealX's approach to reusability sets it apart from competitors like SpaceX. While SpaceX's Falcon 9 partially reuses its booster, EtherealX is designing its vehicles to bring back both the upper stage and booster. This is achieved through a proprietary rocket engine cycle that allows for efficient operation in both vacuum and atmosphere.
The company claims its technology can drastically reduce launch costs. EtherealX aims to offer launch prices between $350-$2,000 per kilogram, a fraction of what competitors like Falcon 9 currently offer.
EtherealX's plans for the future:
- Test its technology demonstrator vehicle (TDV) in 2026. The TDV will be 35 meters tall and 2.5 meters wide with a 1.2-ton capacity.
- Start manufacturing its own rocket engines in-house. The startup has already partnered with other companies to outsource engine production.
- Target 10-15 customers for its initial launch in 2026. The company has already identified 35 potential customers.
India's space ecosystem is booming. With a growing number of space-tech startups and government support, India is poised to become a major player in the global space industry.
EtherealX's bold ambition to develop fully reusable launch vehicles could have a significant impact on the future of space travel and exploration.
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