Technopark-based satellite maker to tie up with Musk's SpaceX

Kerala startup HEX20, based out of Technopark, is set to launch Kerala’s first satellite, Nila, in collaboration with Elon Musk’s Space Exploration Technologies Corporation (SpaceX). The satellite, named after Nila (Bharathapuzha) in Kerala and the Technopark building where HEX20 is located, will be part of the Transporter-13 mission scheduled for February 2025.

Transporter-13 is a dedicated rideshare mission by SpaceX. The SmallSat Rideshare Program offers small satellite operators regular, scheduled Falcon 9 rideshare launches to sun-synchronous orbit (SSO) for ESPA-class payloads. Prices start at around $300,000 per mission, which allows for payloads of up to 50 kg.

Ground station for satellite

HEX20 also plans to establish a ground station for satellite operations at Marian College of Engineering in Menamkulam, Thiruvananthapuram where students and faculty will be trained to manage the facility. 

Co-founder M.B. Aravind highlighted the importance of this launch and said, “This will demonstrate HEX20's capabilities in satellite development and operation. The company aims to contribute to Kerala’s emerging reputation as a hub for space technology, leveraging partnerships with local academic institutions and international firms.”

Innovative initiative to develop the sector

The company anticipates launching a 50 kg satellite on ISRO’s PSLV towards the end of next year. According to HEX20, it aims to provide customizable spacecraft and components while enhancing the capabilities of institutions and private organisations globally through its FlatSats and capacity-building initiatives.

Sanjeev Nair, CEO of Technopark, expressed pride in HEX20’s achievements, noting the vibrant growth of companies in the region. He emphasised the government's support for innovation and the development of a space ecosystem, facilitated by Kerala Space Park in Technopark Phase IV.

Collaborates with Japanese firm

The proximity to key ISRO centres, such as VSSC and LPSC, provides Kerala with a strategic advantage in the space sector. Last year, HEX20 formed a strategic collaboration with iSpace, a Japanese firm focused on lunar resource development, aiming to promote affordable lunar satellite missions.

HEX20, which also has a presence in Australia, the UAE, and Taiwan, is part of a domestic manufacturing network contributing to ISRO missions. The company is working towards its first launch in February 2025, with additional missions planned for 2025 and 2026,