GalaxEye Launches World’s First OptoSAR Satellite

GalaxEye launched Mission Drishti, the world’s first OptoSAR satellite, on 3 May 2026. The 190-kilogram satellite lifted off on a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from Vandenberg, California, at 12:30 PM IST. Mission Drishti is India’s largest privately developed Earth observation satellite.

OptoSAR Technology

OptoSAR combines Electro-Optical (EO) sensors and Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) sensors in a single platform. EO sensors capture images in visible and infrared wavelengths, while SAR uses microwave radar to obtain images through clouds and in darkness. The combined system supports all-weather, day-and-night imaging.

Mission Drishti and Earth Observation

Mission Drishti is an Earth observation satellite designed for data collection across varied environmental conditions. Earth observation satellites monitor land, water, atmosphere, and built-up areas from orbit. Such satellites support mapping, crop assessment, flood monitoring, and coastal surveillance.

Development, Partners and Applications

GalaxEye is a Bengaluru-based space-tech startup founded by IIT Madras alumni. The company developed Mission Drishti after more than five years of research and development. GalaxEye has partnered with NewSpace India Limited (NSIL), the commercial arm of ISRO, for global distribution of satellite imagery.

Important Facts for Exams

• SpaceX Falcon 9 is a reusable launch vehicle used for satellite deployment.
• Vandenberg Space Force Base is located in California, United States.
• Synthetic Aperture Radar can collect data in cloud cover and at night.
• Earth observation satellites have civilian and defence applications.

Mission Drishti is a dual-use satellite with applications in defence surveillance, agriculture monitoring, disaster response, maritime tracking, and infrastructure planning. Prime Minister Narendra Modi described the launch as a major achievement in India’s space journey.