Kerala Startup HEX20's 'Nila' Satellite Takes Flight, Powered by SpaceX

The launch of the 'Nila' satellite is a groundbreaking achievement for HEX20, a Kerala-based space startup. Named after Kerala's longest river, 'Nila' was launched aboard SpaceX's Transporter-13 mission on March 15, 2025. This satellite is designed to control critical components like solar arrays and antennas in space missions.

HEX20, founded in 2020 and operating from Technopark since 2023, collaborated with the German firm Decubed for this mission. The satellite's payload included Release Actuators, showcasing HEX20's commitment to fostering global partnerships. The mission was supported by the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre (IN-SPACe) and received assistance from ISRO for testing and tracking facilities.

This marks a significant step forward for India's private space sector, and HEX20 is already planning future missions, including a 50kg satellite launch with ISRO next year.

The 'Nila' satellite employs advanced technology to control critical components in space missions, such as solar arrays and antennas. It features Release Actuators, developed by the German firm Decubed, which were integrated into the satellite by HEX20. This innovative payload demonstrates HEX20's commitment to fostering global partnerships and advancing space technology.

The satellite's operations are managed from HEX20's ground station at Marian Engineering College in Thiruvananthapuram, where students and faculty are being trained to handle satellite tracking and mission management. This marks a significant step forward in India's private space sector.