Talisha Space Research Organisation is advancing its KALPANA Mission, a multi-year programme aimed at developing reusable rocket technology for future space applications. The initiative is part of the organisation’s broader effort to build indigenous capabilities in reusable space systems, propulsion and autonomous recovery.
Based in Durgapur, West Bengal, Talisha says it was established in 2024 and is working across reusable rockets, CubeSat technology and space exploration. The organisation also highlights collaboration with students and mentors as part of its research and technology-development activities.
The KALPANA Mission is planned for 2025-2028 and centres on a series of three rockets-Kalpana-1, Kalpana-2 and Kalpana-3. According to Talisha, the vehicles are intended to introduce progressive improvements in propulsion, payload capacity, mission range and autonomous recovery systems.
The first vehicle, Kalpana-1, uses a two-stage solid rocket propulsion system and is designed for high-altitude suborbital missions. Talisha lists a maximum altitude of around 30 kilometres for the vehicle. It also incorporates a parachute-based recovery system intended to support a controlled descent and future reusability. The rocket has a dedicated payload section for scientific instruments, CubeSats and experimental modules.
The programme then moves towards more advanced hybrid propulsion and autonomous recovery technologies. Kalpana-2 is described as a three-stage hybrid rocket equipped with an AI-powered autonomous landing system. The vehicle is designed to support payloads of up to 20 kg and is intended to demonstrate controlled recovery on both land and water.
The most advanced vehicle in the planned series, Kalpana-3, is designed around a three-stage propulsion architecture combining liquid and solid propulsion. Talisha states that it is intended to reach up to 230 kilometres and carry up to 34 kg across multiple payloads, including CubeSat configurations. Its planned autonomous landing capability is intended to support recovery in water and at sea beaches.
A major objective of the KALPANA programme is to make space missions more affordable through reusable rocket technology. Talisha says the programme combines hybrid and solid propulsion with AI-assisted navigation and autonomous recovery, with applications including satellite deployment, scientific research and future space exploration.
The organisation is also developing supporting rocket-testing capabilities, including igniter testing, engine testing, nozzle analysis, cavity testing and static-fire testing. These facilities are intended to support the development and validation of propulsion technologies associated with its broader aerospace programme.
The KALPANA Mission reflects the growing range of private-sector activity in India’s space technology ecosystem. By focusing on reusable systems, autonomous flight and small-payload applications, Talisha Aerospace is seeking to develop technologies that could support more frequent and cost-effective access to space.
-
-
-
-
