Planet Labs is advancing its geospatial intelligence capabilities with the introduction of its next-generation 'Owl' satellite constellation, a program designed to significantly accelerate and deepen Earth observation. This initiative moves beyond simple image capture by embedding sophisticated artificial intelligence directly into the orbital hardware.
The primary feature of the Owl series is the provision of imagery with a sharp 1-meter resolution, marking a substantial upgrade from the 3-meter standard currently offered by the company's SuperDove fleet. This technological leap signals a strategic shift toward actively interpreting the Earth's surface in near real-time rather than just documenting it. The satellites will incorporate integrated Nvidia Graphics Processing Units (GPUs) to provide the necessary onboard processing power for autonomous data analysis while in orbit.
This embedded processing capability will allow for the immediate identification of specific objects and the flagging of anomalies within the data streams, transforming raw data into actionable intelligence before it reaches ground stations. Planet Labs is ensuring a smooth transition for existing users; the Owl satellites will maintain operational compatibility by using the identical spectral bands as the current SuperDove constellation. This compatibility means established analytical frameworks can be applied immediately to the new, higher-fidelity data sets, minimizing disruption.
The initial technological validation for the Owl program is slated for a demonstration launch in the latter half of 2026. Following this critical test, the company plans to deploy the full constellation over subsequent years, though the exact schedule for complete operational deployment remains undisclosed. This methodical scaling approach underscores a commitment to robust execution.
Concurrently, Planet is boosting manufacturing for its larger Pelican satellites. To satisfy the growing demand for high-cadence data, particularly in Europe, the company is establishing a second dedicated production facility in Berlin, which will also function as its European operational hub. This dual strategy—focusing on next-generation Owl technology and expanded Pelican capacity—aligns with the global need for precise and timely environmental monitoring data.