Satnews Daily
December 10th, 2018

SSL-Manufactured SkySats 14 and 15 Imagery Being Received by Planet


SSL, a Maxar Technologies company (NYSE: MAXR) (TSX: MAXR), has announced that Earth Observation (EO) satellites built for Planet are now receiving initial imagery.


SkySats 14 and 15 in SSL's smallsat manufacturing facility. Photo is courtesy of the company.

SkySats 14 and 15 were launched on December 3 from Vandenberg Air Force Base on Spaceflight’s first Sun Synchronous dedicated rideshare mission aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9. First imagery was received on December 5. Successful operation of the two satellites demonstrates SSL’s ongoing success in small form factor satellite manufacturing.


Imagery of Beijing, China captured by SSL-built SkySat. Image is courtesy of Planet.

With this launch there are now 15 SkySats on orbit, 13 of which were built by SSL. They feature 72 cm. resolution and complement Planet’s Dove constellation.

Executive Comment

Dario Zamarian, SSL Group President, said that the firm continues to extend its leadership in Earth Observation satellite manufacturing. SSL's proven successes in commercial innovation allow the company to continue to provide customers the experience and reliability they want, with the cost and timeline objectives they require for innovative satellite platforms.