Planet Labs launches Pelican-12 satellite with updated imaging and communications systems
PL•Planet Labs launched Pelican-12, a second-generation imaging satellite designed for 30 cm-class imagery, and will test a communications package that relays imagery through SES Space & Defense’s O3b mPOWER satellites.
1. Satellite launch and tests
Planet Labs launched Pelican-12 aboard SpaceX’s Bandwagon-5 mission. The satellite carries an updated payload and communications systems informed by July’s Pelican-11 mission, plus NVIDIA’s Jetson platform to accelerate in-orbit AI processing.
2. Resolution and production plans
Second-generation Pelicans are designed to deliver 30 cm-class imagery, compared with 50 cm-class imagery from the first generation. The prototype communications package will test imagery relay through SES Space & Defense’s O3b mPOWER satellites, potentially reducing data-delivery latency. Production at Planet Labs’ expanded Berlin facility is scheduled to start in 2026, with additional Pelican launches planned for 2027.
