Bellatrix and TelePIX plan 2028 air-breathing VLEO imaging demonstration
spacenews.com May 29, 2026

Bellatrix and TelePIX plan 2028 air-breathing VLEO imaging demonstration

AI-summarised brief · reviewed before publication

South Korean optical payload developer TelePIX and Indian propulsion specialist Bellatrix Aerospace have partnered to integrate an optical sensor with a spacecraft bus for a 2028 very low Earth orbit (VLEO) geospatial demonstration mission. The mission aims to utilize an "air-breathing" electric propulsion system, which would use residual atmospheric particles at VLEO altitudes as propellant. This technology has the potential to deliver higher-resolution imaging capabilities than conventional satellites in higher orbits, but poses significant atmospheric drag challenges.

💡 Why It Matters

  • · The success of this mission could pave the way for commercially viable constellations in VLEO, offering game-changing improvements in optical imaging resolution compared to conventional low Earth orbit systems.