Pixxel secures NASA contract for Earth science research with hyperspectral tech

Pixxel secures NASA contract for Earth science research with hyperspectral tech
by Clarence Oxford
Los Angeles CA (SPX) Sep 15, 2024

Pixxel, a leading company in hyperspectral imaging and Earth Observation, has been selected as part of NASA's $476 million Commercial SmallSat Data Acquisition Program On-Ramp1 Multiple Award contract. The contract runs through November 2028.

This contract establishes Pixxel as a prominent player in the space industry, joining a group of established Earth Observation organizations.

Under this agreement, Pixxel will provide NASA, as well as U.S. government and academic partners, with hyperspectral Earth observation data. These datasets will enhance Earth science research, providing detailed insights into climate change, agriculture, biodiversity, and resource management by capturing data across hundreds of narrow wavelengths.

"Being selected for this NASA contract is a monumental achievement for Pixxel and further validates that hyperspectral imaging will be integral to the future of space-based Earth observation and enable us to truly build a health monitor for the planet," said Awais Ahmed, Co-founder and CEO of Pixxel. "We are deeply honored to support NASA's Earth Observation initiatives and demonstrate the transformative potential of Pixxel's hyperspectral technology in addressing critical environmental challenges."

Pixxel is preparing to launch Fireflies, its hyperspectral satellites with 5-meter resolution, which will be the highest-resolution hyperspectral satellites to date. These satellites will capture data across 250+ spectral bands, providing wide coverage with a 40 km swath width and a 24-hour revisit frequency anywhere on Earth.

Pixxel's Chief Commercial Officer, Aakash Parekh, said, "This contract represents a major step forward in leveraging commercial hyperspectral data to bolster Earth science research and environmental monitoring. We are proud to foster further collaboration on hyperspectral data applications within the scientific community, and we look forward to working with NASA to further its mission with this cutting-edge earth monitoring modality."

In addition to its six satellites set to launch soon, Pixxel aims to expand its constellation to 24 satellites, making hyperspectral data more accessible to industries and governments. This expansion will provide stakeholders with real-time insights, aiding in decision-making, resource management, and enhancing environmental resilience.