Pixxel, a leader in hyperspectral earth-imaging technology, inaugurated its Spacecraft Manufacturing Facility in Bengaluru, India, today. The event was attended by S Somanath, Chairman of ISRO, and other industry stakeholders and investors. Pixxel introduced its satellite building facility at the ceremony.
Pixxel’s CEO and Founder, Awais Ahmed, outlined the facility’s capabilities, stating, “We’ll build 6 of our Firefly hyperspectral imaging satellites, here.” Noting that at full capacity, the facility can handle over twenty satellites simultaneously, with a turnaround time of six months.
Ahmed, also highlighted the achievement, stating, “For the first time in India and globally, we’ll have a five-meter commercial hyperspectral satellite.”
Over the past two years, Pixxel has deployed three functional satellites, showcasing its expertise in converting data into actionable insights. The company is expanding its operations in the upstream and downstream market in space, revealing partnerships with global entities such as British Petroleum, the Ministry of Agriculture in India, and the National Reconnaissance Office in the US for its data.
Pixxel plans to launch 6 satellites as part of the Firefly constellation this year, bringing the total to 9 with the inclusion of the 3 already deployed satellites. The company also expressed intentions to launch satellites for the bigger and better Honeybee constellation of hyperspectral satellites.
The newly inaugurated facility, spanning over 30,000 sq ft, consolidates satellite manufacturing services, providing a comprehensive Spacecraft Assembly, Integration, and Testing (AIT) facility. Pixxel aims to streamline the production process, designing, manufacturing, integrating, and testing satellites under one roof before shipping them to launch sites.
CEO Awais Ahmed shared his vision, stating, “The inauguration of the new facility marks a momentous milestone as Pixxel nears its fifth anniversary since inception.” He emphasised the facility’s role in Pixxel’s mission to build a health monitor for the planet, delivering critical data to key industries like agriculture, energy, forestry, and environmental monitoring.
Two modern clean rooms ensure a contamination-free environment during satellite assembly, and the facility includes labs for advanced camera integration, electronics R&D, electrical assembly, a mechanical workshop, a mission control room, and office space for over 200 employees.
Pixxel’s commitment to sustainability is evident in the facility’s features, including a wastewater treatment plant and smart HVAC systems to enhance energy efficiency.
The opening of this facility is a significant moment for Pixxel as it prepares to launch six satellites in 2024 and eighteen more by 2025, advancing its mission to build a health monitor for the planet.
