India’s GalaxEye Satellite

The Indian space-tech start-up GalaxEye has announced a groundbreaking initiative: the launch of Mission Drishti in early 2026. This mission will feature the world’s first multi-sensor Earth observation satellite, known as the GalaxEye satellite, that integrates synthetic aperture radar (SAR) and high-resolution optical satellite payloads.

The GalaxEye satellite represents a major milestone for India’s private space sector and reinforces the nation’s growing role in space technology globally. SSC aspirants must note this as a significant development in India’s space-tech startup ecosystem.

Overview of Mission Drishti

The GalaxEye Mission Drishti weighs approximately 160 kg and provides 1.5-metre resolution imagery, making it India’s largest privately built satellite. It is also the highest-resolution satellite developed domestically. Designed to operate under all-weather conditions, the satellite can capture data day and night, offering continuous Earth observation capabilities.

For SSC preparation, remember that the GalaxEye satellite combines multiple sensors, which is unique in the global space industry.

Technological Features

The GalaxEye satellite integrates advanced technologies to enhance remote sensing. Its key features include:

• Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) imaging: Enables imaging through clouds and darkness.

• High-resolution optical sensors: Capture detailed visual data for precise analysis.

• SAR and optical hybrid imaging technology: This unique fusion allows comprehensive geospatial intelligence from a single satellite.

SSC aspirants should note that this combination of SAR satellite and optical satellite capabilities provides India with superior Earth observation data for multiple applications.

Applications of the GalaxEye Satellite

The GalaxEye satellite serves a wide range of sectors:

• Defence and border surveillance: Real-time monitoring for national security.

• Disaster management: Helps in flood, earthquake, and cyclone assessments.

• Agriculture: Monitors crop health and irrigation patterns.

• Infrastructure and utilities: Tracks urban development, roads, and power grids.

• Insurance and financial services: Provides data for risk assessment and investment planning.

SSC aspirants should remember that GalaxEye satellite applications in agriculture and disaster management demonstrate the dual-use nature of space technology for civilian and strategic purposes.

Satellite Constellation Plans

GalaxEye aims to launch 8–10 satellites over the next four years. This future satellite constellation by GalaxEye will improve spatial, spectral, and temporal resolution for Earth observation. SSC candidates should note that the constellation will support continuous monitoring and intelligence gathering, enhancing India’s remote sensing capabilities.

Design, Testing, and AI Integration

The GalaxEye Mission Drishti resolution and specifications have been rigorously tested under extreme temperatures and harsh space conditions. These structural assessments ensure durability and high precision. Furthermore, AI integration in GalaxEye satellite data analytics will allow actionable insights for defence, environmental monitoring, and disaster management.

Strategic Importance

The launch of GalaxEye Mission The Drishti satellite places India prominently on the global space map. This achievement reflects the growth of Indian private space companies and space-tech startups in India.

With the ability to provide high-resolution, all-weather, real-time Earth observation, the GalaxEye satellite for defence and surveillance enhances India’s strategic capabilities amid rising geopolitical challenges.

SSC aspirants should focus on:

• India’s first multi-sensor Earth observation satellite is privately built by GalaxEye.

• The combination of SAR and optical hybrid imaging technology is unique globally.

• AI-powered data analytics make the GalaxEye satellite a modern tool for decision-making across sectors.

Key Points to Remember for SSC Exams

Final Thoughts

The Indian space-tech start-up GalaxEye is set to launch Mission Drishti in early 2026, marking India’s first multi-sensor Earth observation satellite.

The GalaxEye satellite uniquely combines synthetic aperture radar (SAR) and high-resolution optical sensors, enabling continuous all-weather, day-night Earth observation. Weighing 160 kg and providing 1.5-metre resolution imagery, it is India’s largest privately built satellite. The satellite supports diverse applications such as defence, disaster management, agriculture, and infrastructure monitoring, while AI integration enhances actionable insights.

With plans to deploy 8–10 satellites over the next four years, the GalaxEye satellite constellation will strengthen India’s space technology capabilities and global presence.