NASA Partners with Pixxel for Advanced Earth-Observation Data

NASA has contracted Pixxel, an Indian private spacecraft company, to provide Earth-observation data via hyperspectral imaging. This selection is part of NASA's USD 476 million Commercial SmallSat Data Acquisition Programme On-Ramp1 Multiple Award contract. Pixxel's technology will aid climate change, agriculture, and resource management initiatives.

NASA has awarded a contract to Indian private spacecraft company Pixxel for the provision of Earth-observation data and services.

Pixxel, known for its hyperspectral imaging expertise, is among eight companies chosen for NASA's USD 476 million Commercial SmallSat Data Acquisition Programme On-Ramp1 Multiple Award contract.

This contract aims to provide NASA with commercially-sourced Earth-observation data to support its research and application activities that enhance life on Earth.

'The goal of the awards is to give NASA a cost-effective way to augment or complement the Earth observations acquired by the agency and other US government and international agencies for the benefit of all,' NASA stated.

Pixxel's advanced technology captures data across hundreds of narrow wavelengths, offering detailed insights on climate change, agriculture, biodiversity, and resource management.

Pixxel co-founder and CEO Awais Ahmed highlighted the monumental achievement for the company, asserting that hyperspectral imaging is vital for the future of space-based Earth observation.

Hyperspectral imaging captures images across various light wavelengths, far beyond the human eye's capability to see, thus identifying and analyzing materials, chemicals, or objects in detail.

Pixxel also plans to launch its Fireflies satellites, promising unparalleled hyperspectral imaging resolution at five meters.

These satellites will collect data from over 250 spectral bands, providing comprehensive coverage and frequent revisits anywhere on Earth.

According to Chief Commercial Officer Aakash Parekh, the contract marks a significant step in utilizing commercial hyperspectral data to advance Earth-science research and environmental monitoring.

Pixxel intends to expand its satellite constellation to 24, making hyperspectral data more accessible to industries and governments for improved decision-making and environmental resilience.

(With inputs from agencies.)