Bengaluru: Pixxel, a rising star in the space tech domain, marked a significant milestone on Monday with the inauguration of its new Assembly, Integration, and Testing (AIT) facility in Bengaluru. The event, graced by Sreedhara Somanath, chairperson of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), showcased Pixxel’s commitment to advancing space exploration.
The newly inaugurated facility, situated in northern Bengaluru, spans over an impressive 20,000 square feet, featuring a dedicated ‘clean room’ and a spacious testing area. With additional sections covering over 50,000 square feet, the facility is poised to become a vital hub for Pixxel’s satellite integration and testing endeavors.
During his keynote speech, Sreedhara Somanath shared nostalgic reflections on his early days at ISRO, drawing parallels between Pixxel’s facility and the development of the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV). He emphasized the distinction between building a satellite and establishing a successful business around it.
Creating a satellite involves a separate set of challenges compared to building a business around it. Each satellite must be unique, and market demands evolve rapidly—every three or four years. Remaining dynamic is crucial to staying abreast of these changes. Sreedhara Somanath expressed confidence that Pixxel’s team will carve out a niche over time.
The AIT facility is strategically designed to accommodate Pixxel’s evolving projects, including contributions to the Fireflies constellation and the Honeybees constellation. These initiatives involve the deployment of multiple small satellites dedicated to imaging and various other functions, showcasing Pixxel’s versatility in addressing dynamic market needs.
Pixxel’s commitment to innovation and space exploration is underscored by the establishment of this cutting-edge facility, laying the groundwork for the company’s future endeavors in the rapidly evolving space tech landscape. As Pixxel integrates and tests satellites for upcoming constellations, its role in shaping the future of space technology becomes increasingly prominent.
