Rohan M Ganapathy and Yashas Karanam: Pioneering Space Exploration in India through Bellatrix Aerospace

In the heart of Bengaluru, a space technology start-up named Bellatrix Aerospace is charting new frontiers in propulsion and rocket technology, spearheaded by its visionary co-founders, Rohan M Ganapathy and Yashas Karanam. Bellatrix’s journey from a college project to securing a development contract from the Indian Space Research Organisation (Isro) reflects the transformative landscape of India’s space industry.

Rohan M Ganapathy, while pursuing aeronautical engineering in Coimbatore, embarked on a transformative journey during his second year. His visit to NASA in the United States exposed him to the concept of electric propulsion for satellites, a departure from traditional chemical-burning methods. With a grant of ₹20 lakh from JSW Steel, Ganapathy initiated the development of an electric thruster named the microwave plasma thruster. Upon graduation, Ganapathy, joined by his friend Yashas Karanam, an electrical engineer, founded Bellatrix in 2015. The start-up found its incubation ground at the Indian Institute of Science’s Society for Innovation and Development in Bengaluru, solidifying its commitment to innovation and research.

Bellatrix’s groundbreaking technology, the microwave plasma thruster, garnered attention for its potential to revolutionize satellite propulsion. The proof-of-concept version, developed in 2015, became the foundation for Bellatrix’s endeavours. What sets this start-up apart is its unique development contract with Isro. Unlike conventional contracts where Isro provides a blueprint, Bellatrix collaborates with Isro on solving a problem statement. The start-up, driven by innovation, crafts both the technology and the eventual commercial product, showcasing a novel approach in the space industry.

In June, Bellatrix made headlines with a significant achievement – securing $3 million in pre-series A funding. The investment was led by venture capital firm IDFC-Parampara, with notable participation from the Munjal Group and KA Enterprises, founded by acclaimed actor Deepika Padukone. Investors were drawn to Bellatrix not only for its groundbreaking technology but also as the sole Indian venture with a development contract from Isro.

Jatin Desai, General Partner at Parampara Capital, emphasized the uniqueness of Bellatrix’s contract with Isro. Typically, Isro develops technology and engages vendors to build products based on its designs. In Bellatrix’s case, Isro provides specifications, and the startup takes the lead in developing the technology and delivering a comprehensive solution.

Bellatrix Aerospace stands as a testament to the changing dynamics of India’s space program. Historically dominated by government-backed initiatives, the landscape is now witnessing the emergence of space technology startups. These ventures, ranging from propulsion and rocket technology to satellite manufacturing, signify a paradigm shift. Approximately two dozen startups have entered the space technology arena in recent years, a substantial increase from a handful merely three years ago.

Dhruva Space, founded in 2012, is another notable player, aiming to build India’s first private commercial satellite. Team Indus and Astrome, each with its unique focus on satellite programs and internet-beaming constellations, contribute to the growing ecosystem. Kawa Space, adopting a platform approach, has garnered support from investors like Vijay Shekhar Sharma, founder of Paytm.

As the space technology landscape in India continues to evolve, Bellatrix Aerospace, led by Rohan M Ganapathy and Yashas Karanam, is at the forefront of innovation. With a blend of visionary leadership and ground-breaking technology, Bellatrix is poised to redefine India’s role in the global space industry.