Launch · Government, Defense & Space

Astrobase tests turbo pumps for high-thrust rocket engine

By Startup Enthusiast · 13 January 2026

What they do

Astrobase is a Bengaluru-based startup developing a reusable rocket launcher for small satellites

The company successfully tested turbo pumps for its high-thrust rocket engine, exceeding performance predictions

Astrobase plans to conduct a full-scale engine test in 2026 and a vertical takeoff and landing flight in 2027

Astrobase, a Bengaluru-based startup, has successfully tested turbo pumps for its high-thrust rocket engine.
The cold flow test of the turbo pumps exceeded performance predictions and marks a major milestone in the development of the engine.
The turbo pumps feed fuel to a flow staged combustion engine with 3D printed core components, providing 800 kN of thrust.
Astrobase plans to conduct a full-scale test of its engine and a static fire test in 2026.
The company aims to demonstrate a vertical takeoff and landing flight in 2027.

Astrobase is among a number of new space startups in India developing reusable launchers for small satellites.
Recovering and reusing the booster significantly reduces the cost of reaching orbit.
The company aims to provide affordable, on-demand access to Earth orbit with a rapid turnaround time between launches.
Astrobase plans its first orbital flight in 2029 after validating the capabilities of recovering its booster.

Astrobase is developing a reusable rocket launcher for small satellites.
The company is building a high-thrust LOX-LNG Rocket Engine Test Facility in Andhra Pradesh, spanning 21.5 acres.
Astrobase has a 46,000 sq. ft. facility in Bengaluru for end-to-end rocket engine production, assembly, integration, and subsystem testing.
The company aims to provide affordable, on-demand access to Earth orbit with a rapid turnaround time between launches.
Astrobase is working on a full-flow staged combustion (FFSC) rocket engine, an 80-tonne-class, 800 kN engine designed and manufactured in Bengaluru.

Astrobase plans to conduct a full-scale test of its engine and a static fire test in 2026.
The company aims to demonstrate a vertical takeoff and landing flight in 2027.
Astrobase plans its first orbital flight in 2029 after validating the capabilities of recovering its booster.