Astroscale Partners with Indian Companies for Orbital Services
Astroscale, a Japanese company specializing in space debris removal, has partnered with Digantara and Bellatrix Aerospace, two space companies based in Bengaluru, India. The collaboration aims to develop technology and services for the Indian space market.
This partnership marks Astroscale's first foray into the Asia-Pacific region outside of Japan. The company hopes to secure an orbital services contract for Indian clients within the next one to two years.
"India has been on our top list of possible markets," said Eddie Kato, president of Astroscale Japan. "Their established space capabilities and growing demand for on-orbit servicing make it an ideal location for our technology."
The agreement between Astroscale and its Indian partners does not involve any financial details. However, it signifies a growing trend of collaboration between Japanese and Indian space companies.
India has recently opened its space sector to private players, creating a 10 billion rupee ($116 million) fund to support startups. This move has attracted international companies like Astroscale, which see potential for growth in the Indian market.
Astroscale is also working with the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) on a commercial debris removal mission scheduled for 2027. The company has also secured contracts from the U.S. Space Force and space agencies of Britain and France for experimental services to extend satellite lifespans.
With the increasing number of orbiting satellites, the risk of collisions and debris generation is rising. Astroscale's technology aims to address this issue and ensure the sustainability of space operations.
The partnership with Digantara and Bellatrix Aerospace will initially focus on providing on-orbit services for Indian government clients. However, the companies hope to expand their collaboration to serve both established and emerging space economies in the future.
This partnership is a significant step in the growing relationship between the Indian and Japanese space industries. It highlights the potential for collaboration and innovation in the global space sector.