The Guardians of the Cosmos: Manastu Space’s mission to ensure sustainable satellite exploration
The space sector is on an unprecedented growth trajectory, driven by a combination of technological advancements and a renewed global interest in exploring the cosmos. With launch costs decreasing and a continuous increase in the demand for satellite services such as Earth observation, internet, and navigation, space is becoming increasingly crowded, inviting a potential threat of collision to the satellites. The number of satellites in space is expected to see a burgeoning rise in the coming years. Since the launch of Sputnik-I in 1957 over 10,000 satellites have been launched into Earth orbit. Since then, the rise in space operations with less focus on sustainability has led to defunct satellites, dead rocket bodies and similar fragments ending up in the orbit, which are revolving around our planet at unimaginable speeds. There are an estimated 166 million pieces of such debris as of today and are expected to reach 100 billion pieces of debris by the year 2029. By 2029, it is also estimated that there will be 57,000 satellites in space and this increase in the number of debris could lead to catastrophic consequences.
At Manastu Space, we are on a mission to save the satellites from this threat with our green propulsion and collision avoidance system to let the satellites maneuver in time to avoid potential collision events, place the satellite in the desired orbit and de-orbit the satellite at the end of the mission. These advancements are possible through 3 major innovations- New Fuel: Our proprietary fuel incorporates carefully selected additives, enhancing performance and unlike the current toxic and carcinogenic fuel (Hydrazine), maintains a balanced and harmless composition. Advanced Combustion Chamber: Tailored to the unique properties of our fuel, our state-of-the-art combustion chamber optimizes efficiency and compatibility. Cutting-Edge Catalyst: Our ultra-high-temperature catalyst that can sustain temperature of 1400 degrees Celsius.
Manastu’s propulsion system can be used for satellites of 100-500 Kg. Satellite manufacturers design the satellite, and we provide a modular, easy to use and Plug & Play propulsion system for the same. This system can also be used in the upper stages of rockets as the auxiliary propulsion system.
The founders of Manastu Space realized the power and importance of space very early when they were students at IIT Bombay and launched its first student satellite. With this achievement, Tushar and Ashtesh uncovered their true calling—a shared passion for pushing the boundaries of space technology. Recognizing their shared purpose, these two old friends embarked on a new journey together, founding Manastu Space, with a mission to shape the future of space technology with a focus on efficiency, sustainability, and reliability.
At Manastu Space, our vision is clear: to revolutionize the space tech sector by delivering solutions that are not only cutting-edge but also safe and designed to prioritise sustainable space exploration. Our journey from the student satellite Lab at IIT Bombay to the forefront of the space tech industry is a testament to the boundless possibilities that lie beyond our planet’s atmosphere. Through innovation, determination, and a deep appreciation for the potential of space, Manastu Space is poised to play a pivotal role in the future of space exploration.
India has a long and successful history in space exploration, dating back to the launch of its first satellite in 1975. Today, India is one of the few countries in the world with the capability to launch its own spacecrafts into earth orbit and beyond.
In recent years, India has made significant progress in developing its space tech capabilities. In 2020, the government opened up the space sector to private participation, which has ushered in an era of exponential expansion, revolutionary innovation, and intensified investment. The private sector is playing a key role in the growth of the sector. Indian space tech startups are developing innovative technologies and solutions that are attracting global attention.
The success of Chandrayaan 3 and Aditya L1, have highlighted India’s unwavering commitment to space exploration and scientific discovery and position India as a key player in the global space community.
In the broader context, the global space economy’s turnover reached approximately 469.3 billion U.S. dollars in 2021, marking an 8% growth to $546 billion in 2022. Projections indicate a further 41% climb over the next five years, reaching a staggering turnover of 1 trillion USD, according to a leading space nonprofit.
As the space sector embarks on an exciting new chapter, Manastu Space stands ready to safeguard the future of space exploration. Through its unwavering commitment to innovation, sustainability, and collaboration, Manastu Space is poised to revolutionize the space tech industry, paving the way for a future where humanity’s exploration of the cosmos can continue to thrive and flourish.