Bengaluru-based space tech startup Pixxel will launch six hyperspectral imagery satellites in 2024. They will use rockets from the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and SpaceX. According to CEO Awais Ahmed, Pixxel will decide between SpaceX’s rideshare missions and ISRO’s Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) based on when their satellites are ready and the available launch dates. “We are likely to use both SpaceX and PSLV, depending on our satellite readiness and the launch schedules,” Ahmed said.
Pixxel to Launch Six Hyperspectral Imagery Satellites in 2024
In January, Pixxel opened a 30,000-square-foot facility in Bangalore called MegaPixxel. They announced plans to launch six hyperspectral imagery satellites to help industries like agriculture, energy, forestry, and environmental monitoring. This facility will handle everything from planning to launching the satellites.
MegaPixxel can make up to 40 large satellites each year. The team is working on nine satellites and plans to add more later this year and next year. These developments come as many Indian space tech startups, supported by government policies and strong investor interest, try to grow in an industry expected to be worth $44 billion by 2033.
Pixxel CEO Awais Ahmed on Launch Timing for Pixxel’s Satellites
Pixxel CEO Awais Ahmed explained that the timing for their satellite launches depends on the type of rocket used. SpaceX’s Transporter missions, which carry multiple small satellites, are usually on time but can sometimes be delayed.
The schedule for ISRO’s PSLV launches depends on the primary satellite. If the primary satellite is delayed, the whole launch gets postponed. “We might have to wait for ISRO’s launch, but if SpaceX is ready earlier, we might use them. There will likely be two launches, one with SpaceX and one with ISRO,” Ahmed said.
About Pixxel’s Satellite Launches and Future Plans
In 2022, Pixxel launched its Shakuntala satellite using SpaceX’s Falcon-9 rocket. So far, the startup has launched three satellites, with the last one in November 2022.
At their MegaPixxel facility, which can produce 40 large satellites a year, Pixxel is currently working on around nine satellites. CEO Awais Ahmed said they plan to add more satellites in the second half of this year and next year.
Many Indian space tech startups are also planning multiple launches in 2024. According to the Indian Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre (IN-SPACe), Skyroot Aerospace and Agnikul Cosmos are expected to make seven launches between 2024 and early 2025. Other startups include Bengaluru-based Digantara and Hyderabad’s Dhruva Space.
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