South Australia’s growing reputation as a hub for space innovation has drawn global talent, with Indian startup Onnes Cryogenics taking a prominent place in the story. Hailing from Hyderabad, the company is transforming spacecraft technology with its next-generation fuel tanks, a leap forward for the aerospace industry. Their participation in the Venture Catalyst Space program in Adelaide marks an exciting chapter in the collaboration between Australia and India in space technology.
Onnes Cryogenics is developing spacecraft fuel tanks using carbon fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP), a material that is lighter, thinner, and stronger than traditional metallic tanks. The benefits of this innovation are substantial. By reducing tank weight without compromising strength, spacecraft can carry more payload and operate more efficiently. These tanks also enable mid-space satellite refuelling, a game-changer for extending the lifespan of satellites and reducing the frequency of expensive launches.
Dr Ram Aluru, cofounder of Onnes Cryogenics, sees the Australian partnership as a strategic opportunity. “India’s advancements in space exploration are well-known, and Australia’s space ecosystem provides the perfect platform to bring our technologies to global markets. It’s a win-win collaboration,” he said.
The Venture Catalyst Space program, delivered by the University of South Australia’s Innovation & Collaboration Centre (ICC) with support from the South Australian Government, has become a launchpad for early-stage space ventures. Onnes Cryogenics was one of four startups selected for this year’s cohort, which also included Australia’s RapidBeam, Japan’s Zharfire, and Adelaide’s OmnigenIQ. Together, they represent a diverse array of technologies aimed at solving challenges in space and on Earth.
Dr Catherine Grace, Director of the South Australian Space Industry Centre, praised the appeal of the program. “The Venture Catalyst Space program is a pivotal launchpad for local innovation and continues to empower space start-ups to scale-up and transform their cutting-edge ideas into sustainable space businesses. The talent that emerges from the program year-on-year ensures a consistent pipeline of space startups with high investment potential. This is generating significant economic benefits for our state and is helping build critical space capability, further reinforcing South Australia’s position as an incubator for space innovation and technology.”
Since its inception in 2018, Venture Catalyst Space has supported 40 startups, resulting in $43 million in declared investments and the creation of 240 jobs. The program offers participants access to mentorship, industry connections, and funding opportunities, ensuring that startups have the tools they need to scale their ideas globally. For Onnes Cryogenics, this has meant exposure to key stakeholders, including the Australian Space Agency and global aerospace giants like Airbus.
Adelaide-based OmnigenIQ, also part of the 2024 cohort, has developed a self-contained bioreactor system for in-flight protein production during space missions. RapidBeam from Victoria is building a network of satellite communication terminals, while Japan’s Zharfire leverages satellite imagery to support Australian winemakers in adapting to climate change. However, it is Onnes Cryogenics’ groundbreaking work in spacecraft refuelling that adds a unique dimension to this year’s lineup.
The inclusion of an Indian startup in the program reflects the growing synergy between the two countries in science and technology. Space exploration is an area where both nations excel, with India’s ISRO celebrated for its cost-effective missions and Australia emerging as a key player in satellite technology and space innovation. The participation of Onnes Cryogenics highlights how this partnership can result in practical, impactful solutions.
Craig Jones, UniSA’s Deputy Director of Business Incubation, emphasised the importance of fostering global collaborations. “Witnessing innovative early-stage startups redefine what’s possible continues to amaze me. We’re increasingly seeing investment interest in dual-use space technologies and services, meaning the technology has application in space as well as genuine capacity to solve terrestrial challenges.”
For Onnes Cryogenics, the road ahead is filled with promise. The exposure and resources gained through the program have not only accelerated their development but also strengthened their position as a global innovator. The company’s success story is a testament to the potential of Indian entrepreneurship and Australia’s commitment to fostering a vibrant space industry.
As space startups from across the globe converge in Adelaide, it’s clear that South Australia’s space ecosystem is not just about local growth—it’s about building bridges to the future. For Onnes Cryogenics, the journey from Hyderabad to Adelaide is just the beginning of what promises to be a stellar trajectory.
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