Bengaluru-based Pixxel, a space-tech startup building a constellation of hyperspectral imaging satellites, has closed a $36 million Series B round led by Google. Other investors in the round include Radical Ventures, Lightspeed India, and Omnivore Partners.

Pixxel’s satellites capture images across over 150 wavelengths of light, compared to the 3-5 bands used by conventional satellites. This hyperspectral capability enables detection of crop stress, mineral deposits, pollution levels, and methane leaks that are invisible to traditional remote sensing.

The company has already launched three satellites via ISRO’s PSLV rocket and SpaceX’s Falcon 9, with plans for a full 24-satellite constellation by 2027. The data platform, called Aurora, uses AI to process petabytes of satellite imagery into actionable insights for agricultural, energy, and environmental monitoring clients.

“We’re building the health monitor for the planet,” said founder Awais Ahmed. “Our technology can tell a farmer which part of their field is nutrient-deficient before it’s visible to the human eye.”

Pixxel’s client list includes the Indian Ministry of Agriculture, a major Australian mining company, and several European environmental agencies. The company expects to reach profitability by 2028.