New Delhi: Bengaluru-based new space startup Bellatrix Aerospace has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), a Navratna defense PSU that is a major strategic partner and regular subcontractor to ISRO. As part of the MoU, Bellatrix and BEL will collaborate on the design, development and manufacturing of satellite systems and payloads meant for operations in Very Low Earth Orbit, at altitudes between 100 and 450 kms. This is one of the most demanding operational regimes that has to tackle increased atmospheric drag, but the proximity to the surface allows for higher resolution sensing, lower latency in comms, and novel mission architectures.
The partnership brings together decades of expertise in mission-critical defence electronics and advanced payload systems possessed by BEL, and the propulsion as well as satellite subsystem technologies of Bellatrix Aerospace, that are purpose-built for the next generation of space missions. The partnership aims to advance indigenous satellite platforms designed specifically for sustained operations in VLEO, in support of India’s growing defence, civilian and commercial space ambitions. This is a new operational regime opening up, and India cannot afford to lag behind because of the novel capabilities opened up by operating in this orbit.
Project 200 by Bellatrix Aerospace
In 2024, Bellatrix Aerospace announced its Project 200, a technology demonstration mission designed to operate in an Ultra-Low Earth Orbit, at altitudes between 180 and 250 km. The satellite uses air-breathing electric propulsion to maintain the altitude of the spacecraft, which would quickly run out of conventional fuel operating at such a low altitude. The satellite will scoop up the gases in the upper atmosphere and use that as fuel, as against relying on the on-board propulsion. The rapid movement of the spacecraft allows the gases to be scooped up, which is then ionised into plasma, and accelerated using electric fields. The technology is similar to scramjets or ramjets.