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Source– This post on Contract for Miniaturised Satellite has been created based on the article “Defence Ministry signs 350th contract under iDEX for ‘miniaturised satellite’” published in “The Hindu” on 26 June 2024.
Why in the news?
The Defence Ministry signed its 350th iDEX contract with SpacePixxel Technologies. The contract is for designing and developing a miniaturised satellite. This initiative is led by the Indian Air Force.
About Miniaturised Satellite
1. A miniaturized satellite, also known as a microsatellite, is a satellite that is smaller and lighter in weight than a traditional satellite.
2. These types of satellites are typically used for research or commercial purposes and are often launched into orbit as part of a larger mission.
3. Capabilities: The satellite will be capable of carrying electro-optical, infrared, synthetic aperture radar, and hyperspectral payloads. It can carry payloads weighing up to 150 kg.
4. The miniaturised satellite represents innovation in space electronics. It allows for the miniaturisation of payloads that were previously deployed on larger satellites.
5. The small satellite has a modular design to integrate multiple miniaturised payloads based on requirements.
6. Benefits include faster and economical deployment, ease of manufacturing, scalability, adaptability, and reduced environmental impact.
About iDEX Initiative
About Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX) initiative
Launched by– Government of India in 2018.
Funding– It is funded and managed by the Defence Innovation Organization(DIO) under the Department of Defence Production.
Aim- It primarily aims at creation of an ecosystem to foster innovation and technology development in Defence and Aerospace by engaging Industries including MSMEs, start-ups among others.
Read more: iDEX initiative: Contract signed for anti-drone systems
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