# SkySat

> constellation of Earth observation satellites operated by Planet Labs

**Wikidata**: [Q27031816](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q27031816)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/SkySat)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/skysat

## Summary
SkySat is a constellation of Earth observation satellites operated by Planet Labs, designed to capture high-resolution imagery of Earth from orbit. Originally developed by Terra Bella (formerly Skybox Imaging), the constellation was acquired by Planet Labs in 2017. These satellites provide commercial and government customers with timely, high-quality geospatial data for monitoring, analysis, and decision-making.

## Key Facts
- Operated by Planet Labs since April 14, 2017, after acquiring Terra Bella
- Instance of spacecraft constellation and artificial satellite of the Earth
- Subclass of Earth observation satellite
- Country of origin: United States
- Contains multiple satellites including SkySat Gen2-1 and SkySats 16-21
- Provides imagery data accessible via Planet's developer documentation
- Described in 9 Wikipedia language editions and has a Commons category for satellite imagery
- Listed in the Encyclopedia of China (Third Edition) with ID 403301

## FAQs
### Q: Who operates the SkySat constellation?
A: Planet Labs has operated the SkySat constellation since April 14, 2017, after acquiring Terra Bella (formerly Skybox Imaging).

### Q: What type of satellites are SkySats?
A: SkySats are Earth observation satellites, specifically a spacecraft constellation designed to capture high-resolution imagery of Earth from orbit.

### Q: Where can I access SkySat imagery data?
A: SkySat imagery data is available through Planet Labs' developer documentation at https://developers.planet.com/docs/data/skysat/.

## Why It Matters
SkySat matters because it provides critical Earth observation capabilities that enable timely monitoring of global events, environmental changes, and human activities. The constellation delivers high-resolution imagery that supports applications ranging from disaster response and agriculture to urban planning and national security. By offering commercial access to detailed satellite imagery, SkySat democratizes geospatial intelligence that was once available only to governments and large institutions. The constellation's ability to capture frequent, high-quality images helps organizations make data-driven decisions about resource management, infrastructure development, and environmental conservation. As part of Planet Labs' larger Earth observation portfolio, SkySat contributes to creating a comprehensive, frequently updated view of our changing planet.

## Notable For
- High-resolution commercial Earth observation capabilities
- Successful transition from Terra Bella to Planet Labs operation
- Multiple satellite generations including Gen2-1 and SkySats 16-21
- Wide international availability with documentation in 9 Wikipedia languages
- Integration with Planet's broader satellite data ecosystem

## Body
### Technical Specifications and Capabilities
SkySat satellites are designed to capture sub-meter resolution imagery, providing detailed views of Earth's surface for commercial and government applications. The constellation operates in low Earth orbit, enabling frequent revisit times over target areas.

### Operational History
The SkySat program began under Skybox Imaging, which was later renamed Terra Bella. Planet Labs acquired the constellation on April 14, 2017, continuing its operation and expanding its capabilities within Planet's broader Earth observation platform.

### Data Access and Applications
SkySat imagery is accessible through Planet Labs' developer platform, supporting applications in agriculture, forestry, defense, and urban planning. The satellites provide both natural color and multispectral imagery, along with video capabilities for dynamic monitoring.

### International Presence
The SkySat constellation has achieved significant international recognition, with documentation available in nine Wikipedia languages and a dedicated Commons category for images captured by the satellites. This global reach demonstrates the constellation's importance in the Earth observation market.

### Integration with Planet Labs
As part of Planet Labs' satellite fleet, SkySat complements other Earth observation assets, contributing to Planet's mission of providing comprehensive, frequently updated imagery of Earth's surface for commercial and humanitarian applications.