BENGALURU (Economy India): Indian space startup Astrobase Space Technologies has unveiled EVEREST, India’s first privately developed 800 kN full-flow staged combustion rocket engine, marking a major step forward for the country’s private space industry.
The company said the launch of EVEREST represents a significant milestone in strengthening India’s indigenous launch infrastructure and advancing the development of reusable launch vehicles. The engine has been designed using advanced propulsion technology that could play a key role in future heavy-lift and reusable space missions.
Although the engine has been officially unveiled, it is yet to undergo testing. Astrobase Space Technologies plans to begin the hot fire test campaign in the coming months, a crucial phase that will evaluate the engine’s performance, reliability, and safety before it is cleared for flight.
The company has set an ambitious target for the first flight of the EVEREST engine in December 2028. If successful, the project could significantly boost India’s private space capabilities and reduce dependence on imported propulsion technologies.
India’s rapidly growing private space ecosystem has gained momentum following policy reforms that opened the sector to private participation. Startups are now developing launch vehicles, satellite technologies, propulsion systems, and space infrastructure, complementing the country’s expanding space ambitions.
Experts believe advanced rocket engines such as EVEREST will play a vital role in enabling reusable launch systems, lowering launch costs, and improving access to space. The achievement also reflects the increasing technological capabilities of Indian space startups in developing world-class propulsion systems.
With testing scheduled to begin soon, the coming months will be critical in determining the engine’s readiness for future missions and its contribution to India’s next generation of space launch vehicles.
(Economy India)
