BENGALURU:
GalaxEye
, a space-tech startup based in Bengaluru, Tuesday said it has successfully tested its cutting-edge Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) technology on a high altitude pseudo-satellite (
HAPS
) platform developed by the National Aerospace Laboratories (
NAL
).
“This feat positions GalaxEye as the world’s first private entity to conduct SAR trials on a HAPS system,” the firm said.
HAPS are stratosphere-operating, solar-powered drones capable of extended aerial surveillance missions. By integrating its novel SAR sensor, GalaxEye has overcome a major challenge faced by traditional electro-optical cameras – the inability to capture clear imagery through cloud cover.
“The company’s
SAR technology
enables high-quality, all-weather, day-and-night imaging capabilities. The successful trials mark a significant milestone in the partnership between GalaxEye and NAL, formalised through a recent MoU,” the firm said.
It added that the collaboration underscores both organisations’ commitment to advancing India’s
aerospace capabilities
and bolstering the self-reliant India initiative.
“We are grateful for NAL’s support. The rigorous test flights have provided crucial insights, paving the way for further R&D endeavours focused on optimising SAR with low size, weight, and power characteristics,” Suyash Singh, Co-founder and CEO, GalaxEye, said.
Historically, SAR technology for HAPS has been primarily confined to a few countries’ govt space agencies, with limited operational implementation.
“Our breakthrough positions India at the forefront of SAR innovation, aligning with the nation’s drive towards technological self-reliance. Beyond its implications for defence operations, GalaxEye’s SAR technology holds immense potential for environmental monitoring and disaster management applications, contributing to societal well-being,” the firm said.
Last year, the firm had done work in radar imaging through Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) in collaboration with Isro and DRDO.
