Bengaluru-based Astrobase Space Technologies has unveiled “Everest,” an 80-tonne-class, 800 kN Full-Flow Staged Combustion (FFSC) rocket engine, developed and manufactured in India. The engine uses liquid oxygen (LOX) and methane as propellants and is designed with reusability in mind.
The FFSC cycle is among the most advanced rocket propulsion technologies, offering high efficiency and making it well suited for reusable launch vehicles. Astrobase plans to use the engine for a reusable two-stage orbital launch vehicle capable of carrying multi-tonne payloads to Low Earth Orbit.
The company has already conducted sub-scale hot-fire testing and turbopump trials, while full-scale engine testing is the next major milestone. Astrobase is also developing a 21.5-acre testing facility in Andhra Pradesh, strengthening India's private rocket-engine testing infrastructure.
August 8, 2026 495 1
