EtherealX, an innovative space startup from India, has successfully secured $5 million in a seed funding round. The company’s primary goal is to develop fully reusable medium-lift launch vehicles that will revolutionize satellite launches by making them more cost-effective and time-efficient.
Over the years, the number of space launches has increased significantly, but the process still involves high transportation costs and long waiting periods. Even industry leaders like SpaceX have their launches booked well in advance, highlighting the need for more efficient solutions.
SpaceX’s launches are booked until 2026, demonstrating the demand for reliable and accessible launch services.
EtherealX aims to address these challenges by introducing a fully reusable medium-lift vehicle that offers complete reusability, thereby reducing transportation costs and streamlining launch timelines. Unlike existing models that only partially reuse components, EtherealX’s design focuses on recovering both the upper stage and booster after each launch.
Founded in 2022 by a team of industry experts including Manu J. Nair (CEO), Shubhayu Sardar (COO), and Prashant Sharma (CTO), EtherealX is headquartered in Bengaluru and is set to compete with SpaceX with its medium-lift vehicle, Razor Crest Mk-1. The innovative design is capable of placing 8 tons into lower Earth orbit in a fully reusable configuration, indicating a significant advancement in launch technology.
The startup’s approach involves a unique rocket engine cycle that allows efficient operation in various environments, significantly reducing refurbishment costs and increasing overall efficiency. Nair emphasized the importance of this new technology in overcoming traditional challenges associated with reentry heat and refurbishment.
EtherealX’s cost-effective model aims to operate at a fraction of current launch prices, promising significant savings for customers and capturing a substantial market share upon entry.
The ambitious startup has acquired a significant land space in Tamil Nadu where it is developing India’s largest privately developed rocket engine facility, showcasing its commitment to innovation and growth in the space industry.
Driving Complete Reusability
EtherealX’s approach to complete reusability involves a proprietary rocket engine cycle that efficiently manages reentry heat and allows precise landing, setting it apart from traditional methods. The startup’s cutting-edge technology aims to provide a more efficient and cost-effective solution compared to existing models like SpaceX’s Starship.
While EtherealX currently outsources its rocket engine production, the company plans to establish its manufacturing facility over time to enhance control and efficiency in the production process.
The startup intends to validate its technology through a technology demonstrator vehicle (TDV) launch in 2026, paving the way for commercial launches in the future. With meticulous planning and strategic partnerships, EtherealX aims to achieve significant milestones in the space industry.
As the company gears up for its exciting journey, it has already attracted attention from potential customers and investors, setting the stage for a prosperous future in India’s growing space ecosystem.
The future looks bright for EtherealX as it continues to push boundaries and redefine the space industry landscape with its innovative solutions.
