OrbitAID AayulSAT will extend satellite life through innovative refuelling.

India’s space sector is preparing for a historic milestone as ISRO kicks off 2026 with its first major launch. The ISRO PSLV-C62 mission, scheduled for January 12 from the First Launch Pad at Sriharikota, will carry a groundbreaking payload named AayulSAT. Developed by Bengaluru-based startup OrbitAID Aerospace, this technology aims to solve one of the biggest challenges in modern space exploration: satellite longevity.

Currently, most satellites become expensive space debris once they run out of fuel, even if their internal systems are perfectly functional. AayulSAT seeks to change this narrative by enabling on-orbit refuelling and servicing. By utilizing a proprietary docking interface known as SIDRP, the system is designed to be compatible with both domestic and international satellites. This allows for the transfer of power, data, and propellant while in orbit.

Sakthikumar Ramachandran, the CEO of OrbitAID, views this mission as the cornerstone of a future "on-orbit economy." The startup recently secured crucial seed investment to fuel the development of these refuelling depots and specialized robotic arms. This mission builds upon the successful SPADeX mission from 2025, where ISRO validated the technical requirements for two satellites to dock in space.

The upcoming flight is a busy one for the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle. While the primary passenger is the EOS-N1 (Anvesha) Earth observation satellite, the rocket will also carry 18 other co-passengers. These include an AI-powered imaging satellite from a Hyderabad startup, a joint satellite from Mauritius, and a reentry capsule from Spain. This marks the 64th flight for the PSLV, specifically using the DL variant equipped with two strap-on boosters.

If AayulSAT successfully demonstrates its capabilities, it could spark a massive shift in how the global space industry operates. Instead of the costly cycle of launching replacement satellites, operators could simply refuel existing ones. This progress positions India as a key player in sustainable space efforts, proving that private startups can lead the way in high-stakes technological innovation.