PL News & Events

Planet Labs announced the launch of Pelican-11, the tech demonstration satellite for the second generation of its high-resolution Pelican fleet. The spacecraft was launched to orbit aboard the Transporter-17 rideshare mission with SpaceX from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California. Planet has made initial contact with the satellite and has begun the commissioning process. As a dedicated engineering pathfinder, Pelican-11 is designed to validate new technologies and capabilities prior to their integration onboard Planet's upcoming second generation Pelicans.

Planet Labs announced the appointment of Wolfgang Schmidt, former German Federal Minister for Special Affairs and Head of the Federal Chancellery, to its European Advisory Board. He joins the board at a pivotal moment as Planet expands its presence in Europe and advances plans for a new satellite manufacturing facility in Berlin, reinforcing Germany's growing role in Europe's New Space ecosystem and Planet's long-term commitment to the region. The Berlin facility will serve as Planet's European center for advanced satellite manufacturing.

Planet Labs Germany and Isar Aerospace announced a strategic launch agreement. Under the agreement, Isar Aerospace will launch one of Planet's next-generation high-resolution Pelican satellites, with additional satellites planned for future launches. "Germany has set out an ambitious space agenda. Planet and Isar Aerospace are responding to the moment and delivering a first for the country: both satellite and rocket built in Germany," said Martin Polak, Managing Director of Planet Labs Germany. "Most excitingly our joint teams have set an ambitious goal to do this first launch within less than 12 months of agreement - showcasing our agile aerospace approach and supporting rapidly evolving national priorities across security, resilience and civil applications."