Ahmedabad Firm Joins Consortium to Launch Indigenous Satellite Network

Ahmedabad’s PierSight Space has become a key player in India’s first fully indigenous commercial earth observation (EO) satellite constellation. The company joined a four-member private consortium selected by the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre (IN-SPACe) to develop and operate this ambitious project, valued at Rs 1,200 crore. The initiative aims to deploy a network of twelve satellites equipped with synthetic aperture radar (SAR), providing continuous imaging capabilities regardless of weather conditions.

Innovative Public-Private Partnership

This pioneering public-private partnership, known as the EO-PPP model, marks a significant milestone in India’s space history. For the first time, a private consortium will fund, design, build, and operate an EO system. The consortium, led by PixxelSpace India, also includes Satsure Analytics India and Dhruva Space. The constellation is expected to be launched within the next five years, with the resulting EO data aimed at enhancing various critical sectors.

According to officials at IN-SPACe, the data collected will support vital areas such as climate change monitoring, disaster management, agriculture, infrastructure, marine surveillance, national security, and urban planning. The advancements in EO technology are anticipated to provide timely and accurate information, significantly benefiting both public and private sectors.

Transforming Earth Observation Capabilities

Gaurav Seth, co-founder and CEO of PierSight, emphasized the importance of developing SAR technology for effective Earth observation. “This programme ensures that India’s critical sectors will no longer have to wait for foreign data or compromise on timelines. Our constellation will put sovereign EO capabilities into the hands of Indian decision-makers, ensuring security, speed, and self-sufficiency,” he stated.

Adding to this perspective, Vinit Bansal, co-founder and CTO of PierSight, remarked that the mission extends beyond mere image capturing. “The real impact will stem from the context built over time, enabling insights that can drive decisions across both public and private sectors,” he noted.

Experts highlight practical applications of the SAR data, such as mapping flood zones and identifying landslide risks following severe weather events. This capability becomes particularly critical during the monsoon season when cloud cover can obstruct optical satellites. Industries such as mining, infrastructure, and logistics will also benefit from more accurate and timely intelligence, enhancing operational efficiency.

The collaboration among these firms not only reflects India’s growing capabilities in space technology but also represents a significant step towards self-reliance in critical data acquisition. As the project progresses, it is poised to reshape the landscape of Earth observation in India, ensuring that decision-makers have access to vital information when it is needed most.