Google-backed space tech startup Pixxel has signed SPARK (Support for Prototype and Research Kickstart) GrGoogle-backed space tech startup Pixxel has signed the SPARK (Support for Prototype and Research Kickstart) Grant, awarded to its subsidiary SpacePixxel Pvt Ltd under the iDEX DISC 8 Challenge 6.2.
The grant supports the development of advanced Hyperspectral and MWIR (Mid-Wave Infrared) payloads tailored for the Indian Air Force.
According to the company, these high-resolution Hyperspectral and MWIR payloads will significantly enhance India’s airborne and space-based imaging capabilities across a range of operational and strategic applications.
Awais Ahmed, Founder and CEO of Pixxel, said, “This grant is a proud milestone in our journey to put India at the forefront of next-generation aerospace innovation.”
The iDEX scheme is designed to accelerate the development of next-generation prototypes and technologies by Indian startups and MSMEs, fostering a self-reliant and innovation-driven ecosystem. Pixxel’s continued involvement reflects its commitment to national strategic goals and the government’s growing confidence in its technology.
Pixxel has already launched three commercial hyperspectral satellites- Fireflies, with more launches planned. In 2023, the company manufactured miniaturised multi-payload satellites. It also signed an MoU with SIIS Co. to supply hyperspectral satellite data in South Korea.
Pixxel is building a constellation of 18–24 satellites, aimed at providing daily revisit capability anywhere on Earth. Beyond Earth observation, the company also manufactures satellites.
So far, Pixxel has raised $95 million from investors including M&G Catalyst, Glade Brook Capital Partners, Google, Aditya Birla Ventures, Lightspeed, Radical Ventures, and others.