Science TechnologySaturday, 7 March 2026·The Hindu / PIB
BEL-Bellatrix MoU on VLEO satellite systems: space-tech facts for TNPSC
BEL and Bellatrix Aerospace signed an MoU in March 2026 to develop satellite systems for Very Low Earth Orbit (100–450 km).
Key highlights
Direct fact
In March 2026, Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) and Bengaluru-based Bellatrix Aerospace signed a Memorandum of Understanding to design, develop and manufacture satellite systems and payloads for Very Low Earth Orbit (VLEO), defined here as 100–450 km altitude.
Key specifics
- BEL is the public-sector defence electronics company that signed the MoU with Bellatrix Aerospace.
- The partnership focuses on satellite systems and payloads for VLEO operations.
- VLEO is given as an altitude range of 100–450 km in the news item.
- Expected benefits include higher-resolution Earth observation and lower-latency communications.
- The MoU also targets reduced space debris risk and lower launch and operational costs.
Exam lens
Question type: space technology and orbit-based match-the-following, BEL, Bellatrix Aerospace, VLEO 100–450 km, March 2026. TNPSC may ask the orbit range and the practical advantages of VLEO satellites.