A new Indian space-tech startup called Orbitt Space has raised $1 million in a pre-seed funding round. The startup was founded in early 2025 by two former ISRO scientists—Christopher Parmar and Anupam Kumar. The funding round was led by pi Ventures with support from IIMA Ventures.

The money will help the startup develop a new type of electric propulsion system and a satellite bus platform for a special orbit called Ultra Low Earth Orbit (ULEO). This orbit is below 250 kilometres in altitude and is not widely used because of high air resistance and fuel problems.

Orbitt Space aims to change that. They are building an air-breathing electric propulsion system that uses the remaining air in this low orbit as fuel. This means satellites will not need to carry fuel onboard. This could allow satellites to stay in orbit longer without creating space junk.

“ULEO is the cleanest and most strategic orbit around Earth, yet it has remained inaccessible until now. Our electric propulsion system will change that, enabling satellites to operate longer missions at low altitudes while delivering advanced imaging and data capabilities without contributing to orbital pollution,” said Christopher Parmar, Co-founder & CEO of Orbitt Space.

The startup is also working on a new satellite bus—a type of structure that holds satellite parts—designed for 200-kilogram-class satellites. This platform will help with earth imaging, fast communication, and climate monitoring.

“For us, this isn’t just about building electric propulsion and satellite platform technologies; it’s about reshaping how we access space,” added Anupam Kumar, Co-founder & CTO.

Orbitt Space is now focused on testing and building its main systems. They are planning to do in-orbit testing soon and start commercial operations after that. Their work could help India lead in making space more sustainable and efficient.

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