MAHE Partners with Dhruva Space to Co-Develop Space Technology Centre

MAHE and Dhruva Space have entered into a partnership with Dhruva Space to co-develop Advanced Space Capability, Engineering and New-Space Technology (ASCENT) by late 2026. Read to know more about ASCENT.

Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) has signed a partnership with Dhruva Space to co-develop ASCENT (Advanced Space Capability, Engineering and New-Space Technology) centre at the Manipal campus. Through this MoU (Memorandum of Understanding), the centre will be developed to feature dedicated infrastructure for spacecraft development, integration, testing and qualification.

What is ASCENT?

ASCENT will help to develop, validate and translate next generation space technologies into operational applications. It aims to advance space systems engineering, applied research, mission development, and technology qualifications by bringing academia and industry together.

According to media statement, ASCENT will support programmes across emerging domains of space while providing an environment for prototype development, technology demonstration, and transition of innovation into ecosystem ready space applications.

ASCENT will focus on advanced space systems engineering and mission operations, autonomous and intelligent spacecraft technologies, space sustainability and awareness solutions, and emerging applications such as space-based IoT and microgravity research.

MAHE and Dhruva Space is expected to inaugurate ASCENT in late 2026 and will enable student-led satellite and hosted payload missions, giving students an experience in spacecraft design, testing, integration, launch preparations, and on-orbit operations.

MAHE Vice Chancellor States ASCENT will Bridge Gap Between Academic Learning and Industry Expectations

Sharath K Rao, Vice Chancellor of MAHE has commenced through a media statement, “Through our partnership with Dhruva Space, our students will have the unique opportunity to work on real satellite missions, gain hands-on experience with industry-grade infrastructure and learn by solving real engineering challenges. These are experiences that go far beyond the classroom. At MAHE, we believe the best way to prepare students is by giving them opportunities to build, test and innovate in real-world environments. ASCENT is designed to bridge the gap between academic learning and industry expectations, ensuring our graduates are not just qualified, but confident and ready to contribute to India’s growing space ecosystem.”