Pixxel, a prominent player in hyperspectral earth-imaging technology, marked a significant milestone with the grand opening of its Spacecraft Manufacturing Facility in Bengaluru, India. The inauguration witnessed the presence of key figures, including S Somanath, Chairman of ISRO, along with industry stakeholders and investors.
The facility, designed to advance space exploration, solidifies Pixxel’s position in the aerospace industry. Having successfully deployed three operational satellites in the last two years, Pixxel demonstrated its expertise in translating data into actionable insights.
Pixxel CEO and Founder, Awais Ahmed, presented the capabilities of the new facility, stating, “We’ll build 6 of our Firefly hyperspectral imaging satellites here.” He highlighted that the facility, operating at full capacity, can handle over twenty satellites with an impressive turnaround time of six months.
A noteworthy achievement is the introduction of a five-meter commercial hyperspectral satellite, a first in India and globally.
Pixxel’s ambitious plans include launching six satellites as part of the Firefly constellation this year, bringing the total to nine, including the three previously deployed satellites. The company also aspires to contribute to the larger Honeybee constellation of hyperspectral satellites.
Covering 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 optimize the production process by handling all aspects, from design to testing, under one roof before transporting satellites 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 emphasized the facility’s pivotal role in Pixxel’s mission to create a health monitor for the planet, providing critical data to industries such as agriculture, energy, forestry, and environmental monitoring.
The facility features modern clean rooms, labs for advanced camera integration, electronics R&D, electrical assembly, a mechanical workshop, a mission control room, and office space for over 200 employees. Notably, it incorporates sustainability elements such as a wastewater treatment plant and smart HVAC systems for enhanced energy efficiency.
This cutting-edge facility inauguration signifies a significant step for Pixxel as it prepares to launch six satellites in 2024 and an additional eighteen by 2025, advancing its mission to establish a health monitor for the planet.
Stay tuned to IncBasil for more updates on Pixxel’s groundbreaking contributions to space exploration and technology.
