Satellogic deploys Merlin.01 solar arrays in orbit 18 months after program kickoff
SATL•Satellogic released in-orbit images showing Merlin.01’s deployed solar arrays, with telemetry indicating the satellite is stable and healthy. Launched Oct. 1, 2026, the satellite is expected to enter payload commissioning next, with full Merlin service availability targeted for the second half of 2027.
1. Satellite reaches orbit
Satellogic released in-orbit images of Merlin.01 showing its deployed solar arrays, supported by telemetry indicating the satellite is stable and healthy. The satellite launched Oct. 1, 2026, on SpaceX’s Transporter-18 and reached initial on-orbit operations 18 months after program kickoff. First contact came about 20 minutes after separation, followed by an onboard software update within two days.
2. Service timeline
Developed on the NewSat platform, Merlin used in-house research and development to adapt hardware, including a larger magnetorquer. Satellogic expects payload commissioning next and is targeting full Merlin service availability in the second half of 2027.
