Pixxel, backed by Google, launches India's first private satellite constellation

Pixxel’s journey began with the launch of its first private Earth-imaging hyperspectral satellite, Shakuntala, in April 2022, followed by Anand later that year

In a landmark achievement for India's burgeoning space industry, Bengaluru-based space technology startup Pixxel, backed by Google, has successfully launched the first three satellites of its Firefly constellation. This pioneering effort marks the country’s first private satellite constellation, ushering in a new era of innovation and leadership in satellite technology.

Setting new standards in earth observation

The Firefly constellation, featuring the world’s highest-resolution commercial-grade hyperspectral satellites, was launched aboard SpaceX’s Transporter-12 rideshare mission from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California. The satellites were integrated via Exolaunch, signifying the global collaboration behind the mission. With a resolution of 5 meters—six times sharper than the standard 30-meter resolution of most hyperspectral satellites—the Firefly satellites bring unprecedented clarity to Earth observation.

These cutting-edge satellites capture data across over 150 spectral bands, enabling the detection of subtle changes in chemical compositions, vegetation health, water quality, and atmospheric conditions. Such precision makes them invaluable for applications in agriculture, climate action, resource management, and environmental monitoring.

Equipped with a 40-kilometer swathe width and daily revisit capabilities, the satellites can monitor vast areas consistently, ensuring no critical events are overlooked. Orbiting in a sun-synchronous orbit at approximately 550 kilometers, the Firefly constellation serves as a vital step in Pixxel’s mission to build a "health monitor" for the planet.

India’s private space industry takes off

Pixxel’s achievement is a testament to the growing capabilities of India’s private space sector. Alongside Pixxel, another Bengaluru-based startup, Digantara, also reached a significant milestone with the launch of its SCOT (Space Camera for Object Tracking) mission. Designed for space surveillance, SCOT will detect and track objects as small as 5 centimeters, addressing the critical issue of space debris management.

The success of these missions underscores the transformative potential of India’s space industry, bolstered by progressive government reforms and investments in indigenous technology. “The successful deployment of our first commercial satellites is a defining moment for Pixxel and a giant leap toward redefining how we use satellite technology to address the planet’s challenges,” said Awais Ahmed, Pixxel’s founder and CEO. His sentiment was echoed by Kshitij Khandelwal, the company’s CTO, who highlighted the satellites’ ability to deliver precise insights for industries and governments worldwide.

Turning vision into reality

Pixxel’s journey began with the launch of its first private Earth-imaging hyperspectral satellite, Shakuntala, in April 2022, followed by Anand later that year. These early milestones demonstrated India’s ability to deliver cutting-edge space technology on par with global leaders. With $95 million raised from investors including Google, Lightspeed, and Accenture, Pixxel has firmly established itself as a global leader in hyperspectral imaging.

The Firefly constellation represents the culmination of years of rigorous research, engineering, and innovation. By 2025, three additional satellites will join the constellation, further enhancing its capabilities. Together, these satellites will provide real-time, comprehensive data to industries and governments, empowering them to tackle global challenges and drive sustainable development.

Lt. Gen. A.K. Bhatt (retired), director-general of the Indian Space Association, lauded the milestone, stating, “The advanced hyperspectral imaging capabilities of these satellites are poised to unlock new possibilities, especially in the defence sector.” He also emphasized the importance of Digantara’s SCOT mission in ensuring a sustainable space environment.

The Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology has been instrumental in nurturing talent and driving innovations in satellite technology, enabling milestones like Pixxel’s Firefly constellation.

Elevating earth observation to unprecedented heights

Pixxel’s Firefly satellites set a new standard for hyperspectral imaging, showcasing India’s growing innovation and leadership in advanced space technology. Their ability to monitor deforestation, detect ocean pollution, and assess resource availability exemplifies the transformative potential of space-based solutions. As Pixxel operationalizes its vision, it redefines Earth observation, demonstrating how satellite technology can address the world’s most pressing challenges.