GalaxEye Space Partners iDEX To Build Multi Sensor Fusion Processing System For IAF Satellites

Bengaluru-based spacetech startup GalaxEye Space has inked a pact with Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX) to build multi sensor fusion processing system for miniature satellites that would be capable of carrying multiple payloads up to 150 kg for the Indian Air Force (IAF).

The innovative system will analyse data from synthetic aperture radar (SAR), earth observation (EO), infrared and hyper spectral sensors before transmitting it to ground stations, GalaxEye Space said in a statement.

Designed as an independent, pluggable module, this 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, it added. 

The technology aims to efficiently handle the large data volumes generated by low earth orbit (LEO) imaging satellites while adhering to strict power, size, and weight constraints, and ensuring reliable performance in the harsh conditions of space, the statement further said.

GalaxEye was founded by Denil Chawda, Kishan Thakkar, Pranit Mehta, Rakshit Bhatt, Satyanarayanan Chakravarthy and Suyash Singh, a group of entrepreneurs emerging from Avishkar Hyperloop, in 2020. The team was brought together by global competitions organised by Elon Musk’s SpaceX.

The startup provides multi-sensor imagery via satellites, providing insights by bringing imaging data from space. GalaxEye can provide all-weather imaging at all times without atmospheric interference. The technology the startup uses also enables it to generate images with extremely high resolution using a small satellite constellation.

The constellation is being built presently and will deliver global coverage in under 12 hours once it is operational. GalaxEye Space’s funding round also marked the beginning of commercialisation with its customers across the US, Europe and Africa.

Meanwhile, iDEX, which functions under the Ministry of Defence, works to set up and manage the iDEX network in the form of independent defence innovation hubs. 

“The collaboration aligns with the Make In India initiative, demonstrating GalaxEye Space’s commitment to fostering self reliance in the defence sector, with support from iDEX DIO,” the statement added.

GalaxEye’s exclusive Drishti sensors are built in-house and upgraded from time to time, with which the startup aims to launch its first-ever satellite in space in the second quarter of the financial year 2023-24 (FY24).

In May, the Bengaluru-based company announced a successful test of its synthetic aperture radar (SAR) technology on a subscale high-altitude pseudo-satellite or HAPS, and the startup claims to be the first private entity to have achieved this feat.

The startup plans to expand its partnerships and customer base in the coming months and has submitted a proposal to IN-SPACe seeking support from ISRO.

India’s spacetech sector has taken huge strides this year, with Skyroot Aerospace becoming the first Indian startup to launch a rocket into space. Besides, Agnikul Cosmos built its launchpad and mission control centre this year, while Pixxel launched its third hyperspectral satellite.

According to an Inc42 report, India’s commercial spacetech segment is estimated to reach $77 Bn in size by 2030.