Amid worsening global germanium shortages, Eon Space Labs has secured major orders for its indigenous thermal imaging systems across India’s defence, surveillance, and drone sectors.
Hyderabad-based Eon Space Labs has developed indigenous germanium-free thermal imaging systems at a time when global supply chains for critical materials remain disrupted.
In an exclusive interaction, co-founder Puneet Badeka revealed that the startup has already begun generating revenue and secured orders worth over ₹50 million, driven by strong demand for electro-optical/infrared (EO/IR) payloads used in drones, satellites, and ground-based surveillance systems.
Thermal imaging systems traditionally rely on germanium, a rare material critical for night-vision optics. However, ongoing geopolitical tensions have led to severe shortages, with procurement timelines stretching to up to seven months and costs increasing nearly 10-fold.
Eon Space Labs has responded by developing alternative lens systems using non-germanium, synthetic materials available within India. “We reduced dependency on germanium by redesigning optics with locally available materials, ensuring affordability and supply stability,” Badeka said.
The startup designs and manufactures complete optical payload systems; including lenses, cameras, gimbals, and onboard AI processors, offering a plug-and-play solution for drone manufacturers who currently depend on imports from countries like Israel.
Its EO/IR systems, priced between ₹800,000 and ₹2 million, are significantly more competitive compared to imported alternatives that can go up to ₹3 million. The company also offers standalone lenses starting from ₹90,000 to address market shortages.
While defence remains a major focus, the EO/IR market is estimated at $18 billion by 2027. The company is also targeting commercial applications such as railway safety, wildlife monitoring, forest fire detection, and solar infrastructure surveillance.
One notable deployment under discussion includes using thermal imaging to detect elephants on railway tracks from distances of up to 2.5km, potentially preventing collisions and saving wildlife.
Eon’s space-grade product, ‘Mira,’ a compact telescope system designed for Earth observation, was earlier launched aboard PSLV-C62. Following a setback, the company is preparing for a relaunch with SpaceX later this month.
The product, which meets NASA qualification standards, is gaining traction internationally due to its miniaturised design that enables higher satellite deployment efficiency.
To broaden adoption, the startup has introduced a ‘payload-as-a-service’ model, allowing companies to access advanced imaging systems for a nominal weekly fee rather than upfront capital expenditure.
Eon has already integrated its payloads with several Indian drone manufacturers and is working with defence programs under iDEX, alongside pilot projects with railways and airport operators.
With 80% of its manufacturing already localised and strong investor backing, Eon Space Labs is positioning itself as a critical enabler of India’s push for self-reliance in defence and space technologies.
As supply chain vulnerabilities reshape global tech ecosystems, the startup’s germanium-free innovation could mark a turning point for India’s thermal imaging and surveillance capabilities.
