Bellatrix and TelePIX to Deploy Air-Breathing VLEO Concept by 2028
Indian propulsion firm Bellatrix Aerospace and South Korea’s TelePIX have partnered to demonstrate a 200kg satellite that scavenges atmospheric particles for VLEO station-keeping.
Mission Parameters
According to SpaceNews, Indian propulsion specialist Bellatrix Aerospace and South Korean optical payload developer TelePIX have finalized a partnership to launch a Very Low Earth Orbit (VLEO) demonstration mission in 2028. The mission aims to prove the viability of high-resolution geospatial imaging from altitudes between 150 and 250 kilometers.
Propulsion Scavenging
The hardware core of the mission is a 200-kilogram satellite bus built by Bellatrix. To combat the extreme atmospheric drag present at these altitudes, the bus will utilize an air-breathing electric propulsion system. This technology harvests residual atmospheric particles and processes them as propellant, theoretically allowing for indefinite station-keeping without the mass penalties of traditional fuel loading.
Strategic Objectives
TelePIX will provide the mission's specialized optical suite, designed specifically for the unique refractive and aerodynamic constraints of the sub-250km environment. Successful VLEO operation offers significantly higher imaging resolution than standard Low Earth Orbit (LEO) counterparts, a capability highly sought after for defense and precision observation sectors.
Bellatrix CEO Rohan Ganapathy noted that while small satellites are sufficient for initial tests, building commercially viable VLEO constellations will require these larger, advanced platforms. This joint venture includes cooperation on launch management and early orbit operations, signaling a long-term intent to dominate the burgeoning VLEO market. The 2028 window marks Bellatrix’s first major technology demonstration for this specific bus architecture following its recent international expansion beyond the Indian domestic market.