One of India’s biggest Aerospace, Pixxel has launched a new facility, spanning over 30,000 sqft. to test and make spacecrafts and satellites. Pixxel’s ambitious plans include the launch of six satellites as part of the Firefly constellation this year, bringing the total to nine
Pixxel, a pioneering force in hyperspectral earth-imaging technology, celebrated the grand opening of its Spacecraft Manufacturing Facility in Bengaluru, India, with key figures such as S Somanath, Chairman of ISRO, and various industry stakeholders and investors in attendance.
At the inauguration, Pixxel introduced the satellite building facility, showcasing its commitment to advancing space exploration.
Having successfully deployed three functional satellites over the past two years, Pixxel has demonstrated expertise in translating data into actionable insights.
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The company is expanding its footprint in the space industry, forming partnerships with global entities such as British Petroleum, the Ministry of Agriculture in India, and the National Reconnaissance Office in the US to leverage its data.
CEO and Founder of Pixxel, Awais Ahmed, revealed the facility’s capabilities during the event, stating, “We’ll build 6 of our Firefly hyperspectral imaging satellites here.” Ahmed emphasised that the facility, operating at full capacity, can handle over twenty satellites with an impressive turnaround time of six months.
Highlighting a significant achievement, Ahmed stated, “For the first time in India and globally, we’ll have a five-meter commercial hyperspectral satellite.”
Pixxel’s ambitious plans include the launch of six satellites as part of the Firefly constellation this year, bringing the total to nine, including the three previously deployed satellites. Additionally, the company aims to contribute to the larger Honeybee constellation of hyperspectral satellites.
Spanning over 30,000 sq ft, the newly inaugurated facility consolidates satellite manufacturing services, offering a comprehensive Spacecraft Assembly, Integration, and Testing (AIT) facility. Pixxel aims to optimise the production process by designing, manufacturing, integrating, and testing satellites under one roof before transporting 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 highlighted the facility’s pivotal role in Pixxel’s mission to create a health monitor for the planet, supplying critical data to key industries such as agriculture, energy, forestry, and environmental monitoring.
The facility includes modern clean rooms ensuring a contamination-free environment during satellite assembly, along with 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 for enhanced energy efficiency.
The inauguration of this cutting-edge facility signifies a significant milestone for Pixxel as it gears up to launch six satellites in 2024 and an additional eighteen by 2025, furthering its mission to establish a health monitor for the planet.
(With input from agencies)