Science TechnologyWednesday, 17 June 2026·The Hindu - Science

IN-SPACe selects 3 startups for Technology Adoption Fund to build 800 kN engine, EO-AI model and star tracker

IN-SPACe selected three Indian startups in June 2026 for Technology Adoption Fund support to develop reusable rocket engine, earth-observation AI and indigenous star tracker technologies.

Key highlights

Direct fact

In June 2026, IN-SPACe selected Bengaluru-based Astrobase Space Technologies, SatSure Analytics India and Hyderabad-based TM2SPACE Technologies as the first Indian Non-Governmental Entities for funding under its Technology Adoption Fund (TAF) Scheme.

Key specifics

  • Astrobase Space Technologies will develop an 800 kN high-thrust Closed-Cycle Liquid Rocket Engine for space launch vehicles.
  • SatSure Analytics India will build Dhaarini, a Large Earth Observation Model (LOM) for agriculture, infrastructure and disaster management.
  • TM2SPACE Technologies will develop StarSense Lite for CubeSats and StarSense Pro for satellites above 50 kg.
  • The selection followed a multi-stage evaluation by experts from ISRO, DPIIT, DST, industry and academic institutions.
  • IN-SPACe said the TAF scheme supports absorbing, adapting and commercialising advanced space technologies in India.

Exam lens

TNPSC science and technology question focus: IN-SPACe, TAF Scheme, 800 kN engine, Dhaarini LOM, StarSense Lite/Pro; match-the-following and one-line factual questions are likely.

IN SPACeTAFspace startupsISRO

Prepare for TNPSC

Turn today's current affairs into marks. Explore the exam guides and practice free.

Upgrade

Unlock unlimited Super AI and every TNPSC paper.

  • Unlimited Super AI
  • AI-generated MCQs & flashcards
  • AI chat tutor in Tamil & English
  • Mock tests & insights
  • Priority support