EtherealX secures $5 million from YourNest to develop engines for reusable medium-lift launch vehicles, aiming to lower transportation costs and shorten launch timeframes.
EtherealX, a Bengaluru-based space technology startup, has secured $5 million in a funding round led by YourNest, an early-stage venture capital firm. The funding includes contributions from BIG Global Investments, BlueHill Capital, Campus Fund, and Golden Sparrow Ventures.
This fund will support the development of engines for EtherealX’s reusable medium-lift launch vehicle, known as the “Razor Crest Mk-1”, making satellite launches cost-effective and time-efficient.
The startup plans to use the funds to advance several key areas. This includes completing their test facility, conducting final tests, and qualifying their 40kN engine for the upper stage.
Additionally, the money will go towards manufacturing a 925kN semi-cryogenic engine. The Razor Crest Mk-1 is designed to launch up to 8 tonnes into low Earth orbit. It can carry more than 24.8 tonnes of payloads in a disposable configuration and 22.8 tonnes in a partially reusable setup.
The vehicle will also be capable of delivering payloads into geostationary transfer and trans-lunar injection orbits.
Manu J. Nair, founder and CEO of EtherealX, emphasised traditional launch vehicles’ technological and cost limitations. He believes their technology addresses these challenges by improving launch frequency and pricing.
Nair expressed excitement about the support from investors who share a vision of pushing the boundaries of space technology. The development of the Razor Crest Mk-1 aims to redefine possibilities in space transportation and enhance access to orbit for various payloads.
