Kerala-based startup HEX20 successfully launched its first satellite ‘Nila’, becoming first private payload hosting satellite from India. The satellite was launched onboard SpaceX’s Transporter-13 mission, highlighting global collaboration and innovation in India’s space technology landscape.
Key Highlights
First-of-its-kind Satellite: ‘Nila’ is India’s first private payload hosting satellite, showcasing HEX20’s commitment to advancing private space technology.
Launch Partnership:
- Launched by SpaceX, through Berlin-based deployer Exolaunch.
- Kerala’s first startup to partner with SpaceX for satellite launch.
Mission Timeline: Developed in just four months, ‘Nila’ was launched under the Transporter-13 rideshare mission.
Payload:
- Featured Release Actuators from German company Dcubed, strengthening global commercial partnerships.
- HEX20 demonstrated payload hosting capability for international customers.
Naming Inspiration:
- Named after ‘Nila’ (Bharathapuzha) — Kerala’s longest river, and the Technopark building where HEX20 is located.
Regulatory Support:
- Backed by IN-SPACe, India’s national body authorizing private space activities.
- Supported by ISRO, including satellite tracking infrastructure in Thiruvananthapuram.
About HEX20:
Founded: 2020 by five engineers; operations began in 2023 from Technopark Thiruvananthapuram.
Global Presence: Offices in Australia, UAE, and Taiwan.
Services:
- Satellite mission-as-a-service
- Payload-agnostic satellite platforms
- Hosting for commercial and scientific payloads
Domestic Collaboration:
- Works with Indian manufacturing partners involved in ISRO missions.
- Set up a Satellite Tracking Station at Marian Engineering College, training students and faculty.
Future Plans:
- Upcoming collaboration with ISRO to launch a 50kg satellite in the next year.
- Expansion of R&D facilities to develop multiple satellites for global missions.