Astrophel Aerospace has developed a cryogenic pump designed for use in rocket engines, which is scheduled to undergo testing with the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). The company said the pump was developed over a period of eight months, with all components designed in-house.
The pump comprises more than 50 individual parts and is capable of spinning at 25,000 revolutions per minute. It is designed to deliver cryogenic propellant at a pressure of 65–80 bar, enabling its use in powering both first and second stage engines. Astrophel Aerospace stated that the pump is intended to eventually be integrated into a gas generator cycle as a turbopump.
This development follows Astrophel Aerospace’s signing of a framework Memorandum of Understanding with the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre (IN-SPACe) to advance semi-cryogenic propulsion technology for reusable launch vehicles. The arrangement provides the Pune-based company with access to ISRO infrastructure for system-level testing, component qualification, and technical reviews.
The MoU includes a Joint Project Implementation Plan, under which ISRO specialists will support design validation and testing programmes for propulsion subsystems such as turbopumps and engine modules.
Astrophel Aerospace recently secured INR 68.4 million in funding to develop its Astra-series reusable launch hopper and is targeting an additional USD 5 million to accelerate engine development and increase production of cryogenic components. Its work spans valves, turbopumps, and avionics, with potential applications across clean energy, industrial gas systems, defence, and other energy markets.
Astrophel Aerospace is an Indian aerospace company engaged in the design and development of propulsion systems and related technologies for space applications.