01Science & Technology·6 min read·Prelims · Mains
GalaxEye launches Mission Drishti, India’s largest privately developed Earth observation satellite
Mission Drishti represents a breakthrough in India's private space sector, combining EO and SAR technologies for the first time globally. Prelims could test the satellite's unique features (OptoSAR, 190 kg weight, Bengaluru origin), while mains questions may focus on private participation in space technology, India's satellite imaging capabilities, and dual-use technology implications. UPSC and KPSC candidates should note this development under science and technology as well as infrastructure.
- Mission Drishti is the world's first OptoSAR satellite integrating Electro-Optical (EO) and Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) sensors on a single platform
- Developed by Bengaluru-based space startup GalaxEye, it weighs 190 kilograms and is India's largest privately developed Earth observation satellite
- Launched on May 3, 2026 aboard SpaceX's Falcon 9 from Vandenberg, California