Spacetech Startup Pixxel Lands Major NASA Contract for Hyperspectral Satellite Data

Pixxel, a Google-backed spacetech startup specializing in hyperspectral imaging satellites, has been selected for a significant contract by NASA. The contract is part of NASA’s $476 million Commercial SmallSat Data Acquisition Program, which includes eight companies. Under this agreement, Pixxel will supply NASA, along with U.S. government and academic partners, with hyperspectral Earth observation data crucial for climate change, agriculture, and resource management.

The contract, running through November 2028, highlights Pixxel’s role in advancing space-based Earth observation technologies. Pixxel is preparing to launch its Fireflies satellites, which feature 5-meter resolution and capture data across over 250 spectral bands. The company plans to expand its constellation to 24 satellites to enhance data accessibility for various stakeholders.

Founded in 2019, Pixxel recently inaugurated its MegaPixxel facility in Bengaluru and has raised over $70 million from notable investors including Google and Lightspeed.