India’s ambitious NewSpace sector just took a giant leap forward. Bellatrix Aerospace, the Bengaluru-based startup known for its green satellite propulsion systems, has officially launched its U.S. subsidiary in Delaware, signaling a strategic expansion into the American space technology ecosystem.
Founded in 2015 by Rohan M Ganapathy and Yashas Karanam, Bellatrix has long been seen as one of India’s most promising space-tech ventures. Having worked with the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and backed by $11.3 million in funding from marquee investors such as Inflexor Ventures, BASF, and Bollywood icon Deepika Padukone, the company is now eyeing a larger share of the global satellite propulsion market.
“With Chris onboard, we’re ready to bring our proven propulsion expertise to the U.S.,” said Co-founder Yashas Karanam in a recent press statement.
Why the U.S. — and Why Now?
The move to the U.S. is a calculated step that underscores Bellatrix’s ambition to become a global leader in satellite propulsion systems. The U.S. market, driven by the explosive growth of commercial satellite constellations, offers massive opportunities for propulsion companies that can meet demands for efficiency, sustainability, and scalability.
To lead its American journey, Bellatrix has appointed space industry veteran Chris MacDonald as Vice President of U.S. Operations. MacDonald brings deep expertise from leadership roles at U.S. aerospace giants like Terran Orbital and Astra, making him an ideal fit to scale Bellatrix’s operations stateside.
A manufacturing facility is already in the works in the U.S., and Bellatrix has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with a leading U.S. satellite manufacturer to begin commercial collaboration.
The Green Propulsion Advantage
What sets Bellatrix apart in an increasingly crowded space-tech market is its commitment to green propulsion systems. Traditional chemical propulsion methods are not only expensive and less efficient but also environmentally hazardous. Bellatrix’s electric and eco-friendly chemical propulsion systems offer a sustainable and cost-effective alternative — a key differentiator for satellite operators looking to reduce carbon footprints.
Their innovations are particularly aligned with growing regulatory and market pressures in the U.S. and Europe to make space more sustainable.
Building India’s Global Space-Tech Legacy
Bellatrix is part of a broader wave of Indian space-tech startups gaining global traction. With policies such as India’s IN-SPACe (Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Center) liberalizing the sector and fostering private participation, companies like Pixxel, Agnikul, and Skyroot have all made headlines with international partnerships and funding rounds.
Bellatrix’s U.S. expansion represents more than just a market entry — it’s a bold statement that India’s private space industry is ready to export both talent and technology to the world.
What’s Next?
With a U.S. office, a seasoned VP leading the charge, and a partnership pipeline already in motion, Bellatrix is positioning itself as the go-to propulsion partner in the U.S. commercial satellite market. It plans to actively engage with American aerospace companies, defense players, and satellite manufacturers to bring its propulsion products to market.
Bellatrix’s journey from Bengaluru to Delaware may well become a case study in how emerging market innovation can fuel global space ambitions.
Source: Bellatrix Aerospace