Insider Brief
- Axiom Space has initiated talks with India’s space agency, ISRO, and private Indian launch companies to explore future launch collaborations.
- These discussions, though preliminary, may lead to Axiom utilizing Indian rockets to transport materials for its space station as it develops.
- With a recent influx of government support—marked by a 10 billion rupee ($120 million) venture fund to bolster space start-ups—India has signalled its readiness for private sector involvement.
Axiom Space, the American start-up working to build a private space station, has reportedly initiated talks with India’s space agency, ISRO, and private Indian launch companies to explore future launch collaborations. Pearly Pandya, Director of Axiom’s International Government Business, recently highlighted this strategy as part of Axiom’s plan to diversify its supply chain. These discussions, though preliminary, may lead to Axiom utilizing Indian rockets to transport materials for its space station as it develops.
India’s expanding private space sector offers compelling opportunities for Axiom and other international companies. With a recent influx of government support—marked by a 10 billion rupee ($120 million) venture fund to bolster space start-ups—India has signalled its readiness for private sector involvement. ISRO recently concluded the development of its Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV), aimed at supporting private players and carrying up to 300 kilograms into low Earth orbit. Two leading Indian companies, Skyroot and Agnikul, have emerged as pioneers in private rocket development, creating additional pathways for Axiom to consider.
Axiom’s engagement with India follows a Space Flight Agreement between the United States and India signed in August. This agreement facilitates joint missions and collaborative efforts with Axiom’s future ISS missions. These partnerships reflect the growing synergy between national agencies and private space players, especially as Axiom’s private space station is positioned to replace the ISS after its anticipated decommissioning around 2030.
The broader commercial space sector in India has shown promising growth. Indian space companies attracted $126 million in funding in 2023—a 7% increase over the previous year and a remarkable 235% surge from 2021, according to Tracxn data. However, India still holds a modest 2% of the global commercial space market, largely relying on international clients while facing stiff competition from space powerhouses like the U.S., Russia, and China.
Image credit: Skyroot
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