Google-backed Indian space startup Pixxel raises $100 million

Indian space technology company Pixxel has secured $100 million in fresh funding, calling it the largest single investment round for an Indian space-tech firm. The company plans to use the money to expand its satellite network and Earth-observation business.

Temasek, Singapore’s state investor, and UK-based space investment company Seraphim led the Series C round. Existing investors Radical Ventures and growX Ventures joined new backers 360 ONE Asset and IMM Investment. The deal takes Pixxel’s total funding to $195 million.

Founded by Awais Ahmed, Pixxel initially focused on hyperspectral satellites, which collect information across a wider range of wavelengths than conventional imagery. It has since expanded into Earth-intelligence software and satellite systems for commercial and government customers.

The new funding will support the next generation of Pixxel’s Honeybee hyperspectral constellation, along with synthetic aperture radar and ultra-high-resolution optical imaging capabilities. The first Honeybee satellite is expected to launch in 2027. Pixxel also plans to increase satellite manufacturing capacity in India and the United States and further develop its Aurora Earth-intelligence software.

The company said it has deployed six Firefly satellites over the past two years and won work involving NASA and the US National Reconnaissance Office. It was also selected to lead development of a 12-satellite public-private Earth-observation constellation under India’s space regulator, IN-SPACe. Pixxel said Aurora will connect data from different satellite sensors so businesses and government agencies can make decisions based on changes observed on Earth.