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Planet Launches Pelican-12 Satellite

October 20, 2026

2 min read

Key Takeaways

Planet launches Pelican-12 satellite.
Pelican-12 is the 25th satellite sent to orbit in 2026.
The satellite carries updated payload and communication systems.
Pelican production to start at Planet's Berlin facility this year.

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Strategic Implications

This launch may indicate Planet's growing capabilities in high-resolution imaging, which could strengthen its position in the commercial Earth observation market. The inclusion of new technologies, such as satellite-to-satellite communications and onboard edge compute, suggests a focus on innovation and customer demand, which could benefit Planet's competitiveness.

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What Happened

High Resolution Imaging Capacity Expands With Latest Launch

Planet Labs PBC has successfully launched Pelican-12, an updated second-generation high-resolution Pelican satellite, aboard the Bandwagon-5 rideshare mission with SpaceX. The satellite will allow Planet to test and validate new technologies, including a prototype communication package and onboard edge compute. With Pelican production scheduled to start at Planet’s expanded Berlin facility this year, and additional launches planned for 2027, Planet continues to scale its manufacturing capabilities. This development was first reported by Planet Labs PBC.

Source | Originally Published: October 20, 2026

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