Pixxel, a spacetech startup, unveiled its cutting-edge spacecraft assembly, integration, and testing (AIT) facility in Bengaluru, marking a significant stride in satellite manufacturing. The inauguration was attended by ISRO Chairman S. Somanath, who drew parallels between the new facility and his early days contributing to the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) for ISRO.

Expressing his insights, Somanath emphasized the dual challenge of building both satellites and a sustainable business model around them. He acknowledged the dynamic nature of satellite demands in the market, requiring adaptability every three to four years. Encouraging Pixxel's team, he expressed confidence in their ability to carve a niche in this evolving landscape.

The expansive facility, covering over 30,000 sq ft, serves as a consolidated hub for all satellite manufacturing services, streamlining the production process from conceptualization to launch. Pixxel envisions this space as a comprehensive facility where satellites are designed, manufactured, integrated, and rigorously tested for launch conditions before shipment to the launch site.

Pixxel's CEO, Awais Ahmed, highlighted the facility's significance as Pixxel approaches its fifth anniversary. The enhanced manufacturing capacity aims to bolster Pixxel's mission to create a planetary health monitor. With the capability to build over 20 satellites simultaneously, the facility can potentially produce up to forty large satellites annually, each with a swift turnaround time of six months.

The facility boasts two state-of-the-art clean rooms adhering to ISO Class 7 and ISO Class 8 standards, ensuring a contaminant-free environment during satellite assembly and integration. Additional features include labs dedicated to advanced camera integration, electronics R&D, electrical assembly, a mechanical workshop, a mission control room, and an office space accommodating over 200 employees.

In alignment with Pixxel's commitment to sustainability, the facility incorporates eco-friendly features, including a wastewater treatment plant for water conservation and a smart HVAC system to enhance energy efficiency and minimize the carbon footprint. This facility launch aligns with Pixxel's ambitious plans, aiming to deploy six satellites in 2024 and an additional eighteen by 2025.