In this episode of Commercial Space Transformers SpaceNews Senior Staff Writer Jason Rainbow speaks with Awais Ahmed, CEO and Founder of Pixxel.
Pixxel is a startup based in India specializing in hyperspectral imaging satellites which launched their first three satellites in January in their constellation. Today they released their first images.
Awais shared his journey of starting Pixxel at the age of 20, driven by his passion for space and early experiences working with satellite teams and participating in the Hyperloop competition. He discussed the challenges of raising capital for a hardware startup in the space industry and how Pixxel secured early investment despite initial skepticism. The discussion also covered the evolution of the commercial space sector since Pixxel’s founding in 2019, noting that while access to satellite components and launch opportunities has improved, competition has also increased.
The conversation also touched on the geopolitics of Pixxel’s operations, given that its technology is considered sensitive under ITAR regulations. Awais highlighted how Pixxel differentiates itself from traditional Earth observation companies through hyperspectral imaging, which captures 250 wavelengths of light compared to the typical three (RGB), allowing for deeper insights into environmental and industrial changes. He detailed Pixxel’s Firefly constellation, which aims to provide global hyperspectral imaging with a planned expansion to 24 satellites by 2026-2027. Looking ahead, Awais expressed interest in expanding Pixxel’s capabilities beyond hyperspectral imaging, potentially supporting lunar and asteroid resource mapping in the future.
About Commercial Space Transformers
The SpaceNews Commercial Space Transformers video series gives viewers a behind-the-scenes look at the people and companies driving the space industry’s commercial transformation. The weekly series features 15-minute down-to-Earth interviews with key players in space, ranging from the executives at the helm of some of the market’s biggest disruptors to the bankers and investors helping to finance their journey. Join SpaceNews Senior Staff Writer Jason Rainbow as he embarks on a mission to learn where the fast-evolving space industry is heading next.
Watch a new episode every Tuesday on SpaceNews.com and on the SpaceNews YouTube channel.
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