Bellatrix Aerospace
Bellatrix Aerospace (Bengaluru) is a pioneer in in-space propulsion technology. It develops advanced electric propulsion systems and chemical thrusters for satellites, and is also designing an orbital Space Taxi (orbital transfer vehicle) for last-mile satellite deployment. Bellatrix achieved several “firsts” in India: it developed the country’s first privately built Hall-effect thruster for satellites and a patented “Green” monopropellant thruster that offers a non-toxic alternative to hydrazine. It also tested a unique Microwave Plasma Thruster that uses water as propellant – touted as the world’s first commercial system of its kind. Bellatrix’s long-term roadmap includes a small launch vehicle named Chetak (a two-stage rocket powered by LNG) planned for the coming years
Satellite Propulsion Systems – Bellatrix offers electric propulsion units like Hall Thrusters and Microwave Plasma Thrusters for small satellites, enabling efficient station-keeping and maneuvers. It also provides chemical thrusters using its proprietary high-performance green propellant (safer, eco-friendly fuel). These thrusters are being used in upcoming Indian smallsat missions.
Orbital Transfer Vehicle (OTV): Bellatrix is developing a space tug that can deploy satellites to precise orbits and perform servicing tasks – this OTV is intended to launch after 2025.
Launch Vehicle Chetak: A concept for a methane-fueled small launch rocket (in early R&D) .
Meet the Team
Founders
Rohan M. Ganapathy (Co-founder & CEO/CTO) and Yashas Karanam (Co-founder & COO), started Bellatrix as young engineering graduates in 2015. Rohan leads technology development (named “Innovator of the Year” for his work) and Yashas manages operations. Both were featured in Forbes Asia 30 Under 30 for their contributions to space tech.
Other Team Members
Bellatrix’s leadership includes Dr. Yashwant Gupta (ex-ISRO scientist) as Chief Scientific Advisor and Dr. Uma Maheshwaran (former VSSC Deputy Director) advising on propulsion. The Board of Directors now has representatives from Deepika Padukone’s Family Office, an investor in the Series A.
