Azista Images ISS from Orbit, Marks First for India’s Private Space Sector

Mangalore Today News Network

New Delhi, Feb 8, 2026: In a major boost to India’s private space capabilities, Ahmedabad-based Azista Industries Private Limited has successfully demonstrated an indigenous ability to image an object in orbit from another satellite, a first for the Indian private sector and a key step towards strengthening space situational awareness (SSA).

Using its 80-kg Earth observation satellite AFR, Azista captured images of the International Space Station (ISS) during two experiments conducted on February 3. The imaging was carried out at distances of about 300 km and 245 km under challenging near-horizon and sunlit conditions. A total of 15 frames were captured with an imaging resolution of around 2.2 metres, with both attempts achieving 100 per cent success, the company said.

The demonstration validates fully indigenous tracking algorithms, electro-optical systems and satellite engineering developed in India. Azista Managing Director Srinivas Reddy said the experiment proved the company’s Non-Earth Imaging (NEI) capability, which forms the backbone of its SSA payloads for tracking and characterising objects in orbit.

Experts note that SSA is becoming increasingly critical as congestion and competition grow in low-Earth orbit, with satellites capable of close manoeuvres, jamming or interference. India currently operates over 50 satellites valued at more than Rs 50,000 crore, making orbital monitoring vital for asset protection.

While ISRO has earlier showcased similar capabilities, Azista’s achievement marks a significant private-sector entry into the strategic SSA domain. Brigadier Adarsh Bharadwaj, Executive Director at Azista, said the experiment provides India with an important new ability to observe activity in orbit.

Launched in June 2023 aboard SpaceX’s Falcon 9, AFR continues to operate normally and supports applications including naval, night and video imaging. Azista said it is now developing next-generation payloads capable of delivering orbital imagery at resolutions as fine as 25 cm from its upcoming facility in Ahmedabad.