TDB Financial Support for Local Green Propulsion Tech
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Key takeaways
- The Technology Development Board (TDB) pledged Rs 116 crore to Manastu Space Technologies to develop indigenous green satellite propulsion systems.
- The total estimated cost for this project is Rs 277.63 crore, funded via Optionally Convertible Debt (OCD) to advance the system from TRL 6 to TRL 9.
- This green propulsion setup uses a safer hydrogen peroxide blend to deliver scalable thrust ranging from 5 millinewtons (mN) up to 300 newtons (N).
- Funding flows through the Rs 1 lakh crore RDI Fund approved in July 2025, which is managed under the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF).
Why in News
- The Technology Development Board (TDB) signed an agreement with Manastu Space Technologies Pvt. Ltd. to support satellite propulsion systems.
- This board functions under the Department of Science and Technology (DST) and operates from Navi Mumbai.
- The project receives financial backing of Rs 116 crore from the Research, Development and Innovation (RDI) Fund.
- This money will help build local green propulsion systems meant for both satellites and launch vehicles.
Project Overview and Technical Features
- The overall estimated cost for this space project stands at Rs 277.63 crore.
- Financial support comes through Optionally Convertible Debt (OCD), which allows conversion into equity under fixed conditions.
- The engine design is scalable and provides thrust between 5 millinewtons (mN) and 300 newtons (N).
- This wide thrust range makes the technology suitable for tiny satellites as well as large launch vehicles.
- Core elements of the system include rocket engines, propellant feed networks, and an ultra-high-temperature ceramic catalyst.
- The project aims to raise the technology readiness level from TRL 6 up to TRL 9 for full operational use.
Green Propulsion Advancement
- Space tests have already demonstrated the basic working of this green propulsion system in orbit.
- Engineers will now carry out further testing, system integration, and final validation for commercial deployment.
- The eco-friendly technology uses a hydrogen peroxide blend mixed with special additives for safe handling.
- This combination improves operational safety while lowering costs compared to traditional toxic rocket fuels.
About Technology Development Board and RDI Fund
- The Technology Development Board (TDB) was created as a statutory body under the Technology Development Board Act, 1995.
- It functions directly under the Ministry of Science and Technology to fund local innovations.
- The board offers financial help to commercialize homegrown technologies and adapt imported tools for local use.
- The government approved the RDI Fund in July 2025 with a budget of Rs 1 lakh crore spread over six years.
- This large fund boosts private sector research and innovation in critical high-tech areas.
- It works through a two-tier system managed by the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF).
- Under this structure, the TDB acts as a second-level manager to support risky and tech-heavy projects.