Space Tech Startup Astrome Bags ₹64 Cr RDI Fund for AI Satellite Network

The Technology Development Board (TDB), under the Department of Science and Technology (DST), has signed an agreement to provide ₹64.05 crore to Bengaluru-based space technology startup Astrome Technologies under the Research, Development and Innovation (RDI) Fund to develop an indigenous artificial intelligence-powered electronic intelligence (AI-ELINT) satellite constellation.

The project costs an estimated ₹128.11 crore, with TDB's assistance structured as optionally convertible debt. Astrome plans to develop microsatellites weighing approximately 50 kg each, operating in low Earth orbit.

The project adds to India's private space ecosystem. Bengaluru-based GalaxEye has secured a US patent for the core technology behind its OptoSAR imaging system, while Digantara has partnered with Singapore's DSTA to develop satellite tracking tools incorporating AI-driven analytics.

The constellation will combine an ELINT payload, AI-based ground processing software, and inter-satellite communication links. The payload is designed to detect and analyse signals across a broad frequency range. Ground software will process the data, while communication links will allow satellites to exchange information.

The network aims to provide wider geographical coverage and more frequent observations of identified areas of interest as additional satellites are deployed.

The project aims to advance the underlying technologies from Technology Readiness Level (TRL)-4 to TRL-9 through engineering, integration, testing, and validation.

“Through the RDI Fund, TDB is supporting Indian enterprises working on frontier technologies that can strengthen the country's strategic technology capabilities,” TDB Secretary Rajesh Kumar Pathak said.

An authorised representative of Astrome Technologies told DD News that the funding would accelerate the integration of technologies for the programme.