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Bengaluru-based startup, GalaxEye, is preparing to launch Mission Drishti in early 2026. The satellite aims to change how Earth is observed from space. Mission Drishti will become the world’s first commercial satellite to combine radar and optical imaging.
The Drishti satellite weighs nearly 160 kilograms, making it the largest satellite built by a private Indian company so far. GalaxEye plans to launch it using a SpaceX rocket, reflecting a clear focus on mission safety and reliability. The move comes at a time when India’s space sector is under pressure following recent launch failures.
Mission Drishti is special for its hybrid design, which uses GalaxEye’s SyncFused OptoSAR technology. Radar imaging allows the satellite to see through clouds and operate at night, while optical imaging captures clear, detailed pictures in daylight. When combined, these two systems provide steady and sharp images in almost every condition.
The hybrid radar-optical satellite will deliver images with a resolution of about 1.5 metres. This level of detail helps track changes on land, water, and cities. The data collected is expected to support many sectors. For example, defence teams can monitor borders and sensitive areas while disaster management teams can quickly assess information on floods, storms, and landslides. Farmers can study crop health and soil patterns, and urban planners can track roads, buildings, and new projects.
GalaxEye has already tested the satellite’s structure at ISRO’s U R Rao Satellite Centre. These tests confirmed that Mission Drishti can handle the stress of launch and space conditions. After launch, the satellite will start sending useful data within a few months.
The launch is taking place during a challenging phase for India’s space missions, following two recent PSLV rocket failures that have raised concerns. Mission Drishti is showing how private companies are stepping up to reduce the burden on ISRO. GalaxEye’s progress reflects strong confidence in private satellite building and data services.
Mission Drishti is also part of a bigger plan. GalaxEye wants to build a constellation of 8 to 10 satellites by 2030. This network will allow faster coverage and more frequent updates. Such a system will help customers who need constant Earth data across regions.
Demand for hybrid imaging is rising worldwide. Weather and darkness often limit the effectiveness of normal satellites. A hybrid radar-optical satellite reduces these limits. It provides stable information in changing conditions. GalaxEye plans to serve the defence, agriculture, insurance, infrastructure, and climate sectors.
Mission Drishti highlights a growing shift in India’s space story. Private startups are moving from small experiments to full-scale missions. GalaxEye’s satellite reflects ambition, confidence, and global focus. As the launch window approaches, Mission Drishti stands as a strong signal of India’s future in private space.
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