GalaxEye, a Bengaluru-based space technology startup, has been awarded a US patent for a groundbreaking technology that aims to revolutionise satellite Earth observation. This innovative system combines optical and radar imaging capabilities on a single satellite, allowing for synchronised data capture of the same geographical location at the same time. The company asserted that this advancement is central to its OptoSAR imaging system.

The patent’s timing coincides with an increasing global demand for satellite-based information, which spans various sectors including security, agriculture, insurance, and disaster management. According to SkyQuest Technology, the commercial satellite imaging market is anticipated to grow from $6.55 billion in 2024 to an estimated $20.15 billion by 2033.

Understanding the OptoSAR Technology

The OptoSAR technology integrates two distinct types of imaging mechanisms to provide a comprehensive view of the Earth. Optical sensors, akin to advanced cameras, yield clear images that reveal significant details like vegetation, infrastructures, and water bodies. However, their functionality is impeded by lack of light and adverse weather conditions, such as cloud cover.

Conversely, Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) employs microwave signals to survey the ground, maintaining functionality both day and night and penetrating cloud layers. This characteristic makes SAR particularly useful when optical imaging is compromised. The primary challenge has been merging these two data types effectively, as information from different satellites often lacks precise alignment in terms of time and angle.

GalaxEye’s patented architecture addresses this issue by synchronising the optical and radar sensors on one platform, thus guaranteeing spatial and time-aligned observations. CEO Suyash Singh indicated that the technology aims to serve various global markets and offers weather-independent imaging capabilities across multiple sectors.

Future Aspirations and Mission Drishti

Founded by engineers from the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras, GalaxEye launched its technology into space via Mission Drishti on May 3, 2026. The mission was heralded as the world’s first deployment of an OptoSAR satellite, and it received recognition from the Indian government as a pioneering effort to combine optical cameras with all-weather radar.

Despite a setback in July when communication with the Drishti satellite was lost due to a geomagnetic solar storm, the mission reportedly confirmed critical spacecraft systems’ operations before the loss of signal. The company remains optimistic about its objectives and aims to establish a constellation of 30 satellites over the next five years. This ambition was bolstered by the acquisition of Bengaluru-based spacecraft engineering firm StarOps in August, enhancing their in-house capabilities.

The acquisition of the US patent provides GalaxEye with essential intellectual property protection as the company works to expand its Indian-developed technology into the global Earth observation market. According to the government’s strategic vision for the space sector, India’s space economy is projected to grow to approximately Rs 3.6 lakh crore by 2033, positioning this achievement as a significant step towards realising that goal.

Long or Short, get news the way you like. No ads. No redirections. Download Newspin and Stay Alert, The CSR Journal Mobile app, for fast, crisp, clean updates!

App Store –  https://apps.apple.com/in/app/newspin/id6746449540 

Google Play Store – https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.inventifweb.newspin&pcampaignid=web_share