SSL, a Maxar Technologies company (NYSE: MAXR) (TSX: MAXR, has shipped two Earth Observation (EO) satellites to Vandenberg Air Force Base where they will be launched on Spaceflight’s first Sun Synchronous dedicated rideshare mission aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 launch vehicle.

SSL manufactured SkySat 14 and 15 for commercial EO company Planet, advancing SSL’s leadership in the manufacture of innovative, small form-factor satellites. The imaging satellites feature 72 cm. resolution and will be added to Planet’s SkySat constellation, which currently includes 11 SSL-built smallsats. SSL combines a commercial mindset and reliability in building smaller form-factor satellites for both Earth Observation and communications.

The SkySat constellation complements Planet’s Dove constellation, with the most satellites on orbit from a commercial imagery provider. Six of Planet’s SSL-built satellites were launched in 2017 and five were launched in 2016. SSL continues to manufacture additional SkySats for Planet in its state-of-the-art SmallSat manufacturing facility, integrating improvements and increasing the cadence of delivery.

Photo of SkySats 14 and 15 in SSL's smallsats manufacturing facility.
Image is courtesy of SSL.

Executive Comments

Dario Zamarian, Group President, SSL, said that the company continues to embrace innovation and elevate partnerships to meet the rising demand for small form-factor satellites. This has been rewarding to apply SSL's extensive expertise in the manufacturing of high-quality small satellites, solidifying the firm's leadership position and supporting the Planet team in achieving their objectives.

Chester Gillmore,VP of Manufacturing at Planet, noted that working alongside SSL on the company's Earth imaging fleet has been very successful. Adding two more SkySats to Planet's fleet will enhance daily monitoring to help customers gain valuable insights, understand what's happening on the ground and take needed and timely action.