Dhanisha Sateesh

Dhanisha Sateesh is a Space Mission Design Engineer at Pixxel, where she develops end-to-end mission architectures, constellation design and optimization strategies, and mission analysis solutions for advanced Earth-observation satellite systems. Her work combines astrodynamics, systems engineering, and operational planning to support next-generation space missions.

Beyond her industry role, Dhanisha is a recognized leader in the international space community through the Space Generation Advisory Council (SGAC), where she has contributed for more than five years and currently serves as Near Earth Objects Project Group Co-Lead and the Reports Coordinator. She has played key roles in fostering global collaboration among young professionals, leading international research activities, and helping shape discussions on the future of space exploration.

Her most significant contributions include enabling collaboration and partnership for planetary defense research, asteroid characterization, and leading conceptual missions for asteroid utilization and impact mitigation. She has also contributed to multidisciplinary initiatives spanning climate-monitoring satellite missions, sustainable space operations, and future exploration architectures such as the ZEUS Constellation project, which explored space-based solar power systems for sustainable lunar development.

Outside SGAC, Dhanisha has also worked with the Moon Village Association (MVA), contributing to international discussions on sustainable lunar exploration and settlement as the partnerships and media coordinator for the Participation of Emerging Space Countries (PESC) committee. She also serves as Co-Chair of WoAA India (Women of Aeronautics & Astronautics India), championing diversity, mentorship, and opportunities for women and underrepresented groups in the space sector.