Hyderabad-based TakeMe2Space has achieved a milestone as its PowerBank-50 battery earned space-proven status after a successful mission on Skyroot Aerospace’s rocket. This domestic, off-the-shelf product aims to reduce dependence on imported components for small satellites. Priced at ₹1,04,900, the unit offers a cost-effective alternative for space startups and researchers.
Hyderabad-based startup TakeMe2Space has reached a significant technical milestone by securing flight heritage for its PowerBank-50 satellite battery. This designation is essential in the aerospace sector, as it confirms that a component has performed reliably under the extreme conditions of a space launch and operational orbit. The battery successfully powered an experimental payload during the recent 'Aagaman' mission, which was carried out by Skyroot Aerospace using its Vikram-1 launch vehicle.
Reliability in Orbit
For space hardware, earning flight heritage is the highest form of qualification. During the mission, the battery functioned at an altitude of 450 km, successfully enduring launch vibrations, vacuum exposure, radiation, and significant temperature swings. The PowerBank-50 is designed for low-Earth orbit missions and includes an integrated battery management system, cell heaters for cold environments, and a modular structure that allows multiple units to be stacked for larger power needs. It is built to support missions lasting up to five years.
Replacing Imported Components
Historically, India's space sector has relied heavily on imported power systems, which can involve long procurement timelines and higher costs. By introducing a commercially available, 'off-the-shelf' domestic battery priced at ₹1,04,900, TakeMe2Space aims to streamline the development process for satellite manufacturers, university projects, and private startups. Reducing reliance on international supply chains is a key objective for the domestic space industry, as it allows companies to develop and launch satellites more efficiently.
Scaling for the Space Economy
While the successful deployment of the PowerBank-50 is a positive indicator for the company, the long-term viability of this product will depend on market adoption and demand from the broader small-satellite ecosystem. Investors and industry followers will likely track how quickly TakeMe2Space can scale production to meet potential demand from other private space firms and government-affiliated projects. Furthermore, the company will need to demonstrate consistent performance across multiple future missions to establish long-term trust among satellite builders who prioritize mission success above all else. The next steps for the company will involve expanding its client base and potentially developing higher-capacity power solutions to cater to larger satellite platforms.