Nithin Kamath has praised a Bengaluru-based space startup behind Mission Drishti, calling its achievement “audacious” after the satellite was successfully launched aboard SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket earlier this month.
Mission Drishti, launched on May 3, is being described as the world’s first commercial OptoSAR satellite. The mission combines optical and synthetic aperture radar imaging technologies to provide high-resolution Earth observation capabilities even during poor weather and nighttime conditions.
Reacting to the achievement, Kamath said the team’s vision and ambition left them “floored”, highlighting Bengaluru’s growing reputation as a centre for innovation and deep-tech entrepreneurship.
The satellite is expected to support sectors such as disaster management, agriculture, environmental monitoring and national security through advanced imaging and data collection capabilities.
India’s private space sector has witnessed rapid growth following policy reforms encouraging private participation in aerospace and satellite technologies. Bengaluru, already known as the country’s technology capital, has emerged as a major hub for startups working in space-tech, AI and advanced engineering.
Industry experts say missions like Drishti demonstrate how Indian startups are increasingly competing on the global stage with cutting-edge innovation and cost-effective technology solutions.
The successful launch has drawn attention across the startup ecosystem, with many entrepreneurs and investors celebrating it as a milestone moment for India’s commercial space ambitions.
Mission Drishti’s achievement also reflects the expanding collaboration between Indian startups and international launch providers such as Space