Pixxel Space’s first commercial hyperspectral satellite, named ‘Fireflies’, is to be launched into space by SpaceX Transporter-12 rocket on January 14. 

A hyperspectral satellite is an earth observation satellite equipped with optical and infra-red cameras that can capture a wide range of wavelengths, split into many narrow spectral bands. To put it simply, they provide very high-resolution images. 

The space startup, backed by investors such as Accenture Ventures, Blume and Lightspeed, has three demo satellites in orbit; it intends to launch six commercial ones this year, and 18 more in 2026 and 2027. 

The first three of the six are smaller, weighing 50 kg each; the others will weigh 200 kg each. Pixxel’s satellites are designed to provide 5-metre resolution while capturing 150 bands of wavelengths — making them state-of-the-art.