PierSight, an Indian spacetech startup, is preparing to launch its first maritime surveillance satellite, Varuna, later this week. This satellite, which uses Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) technology, is designed for all-weather maritime monitoring and marks India’s first private demonstration of SAR satellite technology. The satellite is part of a planned 32-satellite constellation aimed at providing comprehensive ocean surveillance with a rapid 30-minute revisit cycle.
The Ahmedabad-based startup has overcome significant challenges in developing a CubeSAT form factor for the SAR satellite, optimizing the system for maritime applications such as ship tracking, oil spill detection, and safeguarding undersea infrastructure. PierSight plans to complete the constellation by 2028.
The Varuna satellite will launch aboard the PSLV-C60 mission on December 30 as part of the POEM platform, facilitated by IN-SPACe. Other innovative payloads on the mission include tests of green propulsion technologies by Bellatrix Aerospace and Manastu, as well as various educational institution projects. This satellite mission is part of a growing trend of private companies and institutions contributing to space exploration and technology development.
