Bengaluru’s Galaxy I startup has etched its name in space history with the triumphant launch of Mission Drishti on Sunday. Deployed via SpaceX’s Falcon 9 from California, the 190-kg satellite is India’s biggest private-sector payload to date. PM Narendra Modi celebrated the feat on X, calling it a pivotal step in space exploration and proof of India’s innovative young talent.
What sets Mission Drishti apart is its pioneering OptoSAR system—a novel hybrid that merges optical multispectral imaging with SAR technology on one satellite. Traditional satellites rely solely on one: optical for vivid, detailed daytime shots limited by clouds and night, or SAR for all-weather, 24/7 penetration using radio waves, albeit with coarser details.
OptoSAR captures both simultaneously, blending them into superior, unified images. This all-weather, high-fidelity Earth observation will empower critical applications like disaster response, crop assessment, and security patrols along borders.
This success highlights the evolving landscape of Indian space tech, where private firms are partnering internationally to bypass traditional barriers. SpaceX’s role allows Galaxy I to prioritize advanced tech over launch logistics.
Looking ahead, as the satellite goes operational, Mission Drishti promises to transform how India monitors its territory and resources. It paves the way for a vibrant private space industry, fostering self-reliance and global competitiveness.
