Astrobase EVEREST: 800 kN private rocket engine
Why in the news
An Indian deep-tech startup, Astrobase Space Technologies, showed off a new high-thrust engine meant for reusable rockets.
Key facts
- Engine name: EVEREST, rated at 800 kN thrust.
- Type: Full-Flow Staged Combustion (FFSC), run on LOX and methane.
- Intended for reusable medium-lift launch vehicles and orbital missions.
- Plans: full-scale hot-fire testing in 2026 and a first launch in December 2028.
Significance
- Billed as the first private engine of this size in India, adding to the country’s private space-sector capability.
Exam angle
- Company: Astrobase Space Technologies, a deep-tech startup. Engine: EVEREST.
- Likely question: which propellants does EVEREST use? Answer: liquid oxygen and methane.
- Related terms: FFSC, kN thrust, hot-fire test, reusable launch vehicle, medium-lift.