Inbound Aerospace, an IIT Madras–incubated startup, has secured funding from Speciale Invest to develop reusable spaceplanes for microgravity manufacturing, scientific research, and defence applications. The company is building recoverable spacecraft designed for low-Earth orbit (LEO) missions that can return to Earth via conventional runway landings.
These spaceplanes are designed to remain in orbit for extended periods and support frequent, cost-effective re-entry missions. Inbound Aerospace aims to enable applications such as pharmaceutical manufacturing in microgravity, advanced materials testing, and defence logistics. The vehicles use a wingless, lifting-body design to reduce structural complexity while enhancing aerodynamic efficiency and payload capacity.
The founding team includes Aravind I B, Capt. Abhijit Bhutey, and Vishal Reddy. Aravind has a background in fluid dynamics research related to microgravity environments. Capt. Bhutey, a former Indian Navy test pilot, brings expertise in military aviation and defence procurement. Reddy, a Columbia University graduate, previously worked at Tesla’s Gigafactory and contributes to operations and business development.
Inbound’s first commercial focus is on microgravity pharmaceutical manufacturing. According to Speciale Invest, drugs developed in orbit may benefit from improved crystallisation and higher purity—especially in the case of cancer therapeutics, monoclonal antibodies, and mRNA vaccines.
The company’s dual-use model also targets defence applications such as hypersonic glide testing, re-entry research, and strategic payload recovery. Speciale Invest noted that Inbound is working with potential customers and regulators and is supported by advisors with experience in India’s human spaceflight programme.
Inbound Aerospace is a space technology startup developing reusable orbital vehicles for cargo return, scientific research, and strategic applications. Based at IIT Madras, the company focuses on cost-effective re-entry systems and high-frequency mission capability through its lifting-body spaceplane design.