Satellite logistics

Manastu Space

Manastu Space (Mumbai) is a space-tech startup focused on green propulsion systems and in-orbit services. Manastu has developed a patented “green” satellite propellant and thruster that is a safer, high-performance alternative to legacy toxic fuels like hydrazine. This propulsion system, initially developed at IIT Bombay, reduces fuel toxicity by 50% while improving efficiency, which earned Manastu contracts with the Indian Defence Ministry for potential use in military satellites. In addition, Manastu is working on autonomous debris collision avoidance and satellite life-extension solutions – essentially servicing satellites in orbit to adjust orbits or refuel them to prevent collisions. The company’s broader vision is to enable sustainable and safe satellite operations by tackling the twin challenges of hazardous propellants and orbital debris.

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2017

Year founded

$ 3 Million. Pre-Series A

Latest Funding Round

~$6.5 Million

Total Funding

~80

Employees

EP/GP Thruster: Manastu’s flagship product is a Green Monopropellant Thruster for satellites that uses a proprietary hydroxylammonium nitrate-based fuel and catalyst, offering ~40% higher performance with non-toxic exhaust. This thruster enables satellites to maneuver or de-orbit with less environmental risk and is undergoing in-orbit qualification.

Collision Avoidance Service: Using its propulsion tech, Manastu is developing an automated system to detect potential collisions and maneuver satellites away from debris – effectively an “auto-pilot” for satellite safety.

Orbital Service Vehicle (Planned): A small servicer spacecraft that could dock with aging satellites to refuel or de-orbit them (in development phase). Manastu is already partnering with a French firm (Latitude) and Indian defense on these fronts.

Notably, Manastu won an iDEX award in 2022 for its space-debris mitigation proposal, underscoring its alignment with national security interests.

Meet the Team

Founders

Tushar Jadhav (Co-founder & CEO) and Ashtesh Kumar (Co-founder & CTO), both IIT-Bombay aerospace alumni. Tushar is an ex-DRDO scientist who leveraged his propulsion research to start Manastu, while Ashtesh leads technical design. They were later joined by Prof. R. N. Jog as an early mentor.

Other Team Members

Jeet Chandan (Investor & Advisor) - a serial entrepreneur who invested and advises on strategy. The board also includes representatives from BIG Capital and IDFC-Parampara who backed Manastu.