GalaxEye Inks iDEX Agreement to Develop Multi-Sensor Fusion System for IAF Satellites

GalaxEye Space, a space-tech startup, has formally signed an agreement with iDEX DIO to design and develop a multi-sensor fusion processing system for miniaturised satellites capable of carrying payloads up to 150 kg for the Indian Air Force.

The innovative system will analyse data from SAR, Earth Observation (EO), IR, and Hyper-Spectral sensors before transmitting it to ground stations. Designed as an independent, pluggable module, the device can be attached to any multi-sensor satellite, providing high processing throughput, power efficiency, compact size, lightweight reliability, compatibility with existing systems, and ease of maintenance.

The formal signing ceremony was attended by Giridhar Aramane, Hon'ble Defence Secretary, Lt Gen Upendra Dwivedi, designated Chief of Army Staff and current Vice Chief, and other high-ranking officials from the Ministry of Defence and the Armed Forces.

This collaboration aligns with the Make In India initiative, demonstrating GalaxEye Space's commitment to fostering self-reliance in the defense sector, with support from iDEX DIO. The 350th iDEX contract enables innovation in space electronics, wherein many payloads earlier deployed on large satellites are now being miniaturised.

GalaxEye Space is also on track to launch the world's first multi-sensor SAR + EO satellite by Q1 of FY 2025, marking a significant milestone in the industry. The company has developed India's First UAV SAR system for defense markets and completed over 200 successful flights with UAV SAR Payload.

GalaxEye Space, a spin-out from team Hyperloop of IIT Madras, has been featured amongst the Top 10 Start-ups to watch in 2023 by ViaSat.

Bengaluru-based Pixxel had also recently signed the 350th contract under the iDEX (Innovations for Defence Excellence) program to manufacture miniaturised multi-payload satellites for the Indian Air Force.

The contract, awarded as part of the iDEX Prime Space grant, marks a significant milestone in Pixxel's mission to revolutionise the space industry in India.

Under the contract, Pixxel will develop small satellites weighing up to 150 kg for electro-optical, infrared, synthetic aperture radar, and hyperspectral applications. The company will leverage its indigenous hyperspectral satellite technology and manufacturing expertise to build these satellites, enabling ease of manufacture, low cost, and ease of launch.