OrbitAID, a Chennai-based spacetech startup, has raised $1.5 million in a pre-seed funding round led by Unicorn India Ventures, with additional support from TANSIM (Government of Tamil Nadu).
The funds will be directed towards demonstrating in-space docking and refueling operations, enhancing infrastructure for on-orbit servicing, advancing the commercial readiness of its Standard Interface Docking and Refueling Port (SIDRP) technology, and expanding its team capabilities.
About OrbitAID
Founded in 2021 by Sakthikumar R, Nikhil Balasubramanian, and Mano Balaji, OrbitAID focuses on enabling sustainable space operations.
The startup is pioneering a network of orbital fuel stations strategically positioned across various orbits, facilitating efficient on-orbit refueling.
In a recent achievement, OrbitAID successfully tested its patented SIDRP technology during a zero-gravity flight in Florida. Over the past year, the company has attained Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 7 for its docking and refueling systems and forged key partnerships to advance its mission.
With its innovative technology and focus on sustainability, OrbitAID is poised to make a significant impact on the future of space exploration and operations.