BlackSky Technology Inc. - BKSY STOCK NEWS

BlackSky Technology Inc. (NYSE: BKSY) has been awarded a contract by the National Reconnaissance Office (NRO) to explore hyperspectral image capabilities. This collaboration aims to enhance BlackSky's relationship with the U.S. government by integrating advanced commercial capabilities for intelligence challenges. The initial phase will involve demonstrating technical capabilities through modeling and simulation and validating cybersecurity concepts. The hyperspectral sensors will identify materials effectively, enhancing real-time mission intelligence capabilities. BlackSky provides real-time geospatial intelligence and operates a leading low-earth orbit satellite constellation.

Rocket Lab announces its 8^th mission for BlackSky, launching two Gen-2 Earth-imaging satellites on March 22, 2023, from New Zealand. This mission, named “The Beat Goes On,” follows a successful launch just six days prior and marks Rocket Lab's contribution of 9 satellites to BlackSky since 2019. The mission aims to expand BlackSky's satellite constellation to 16, enhancing its real-time geospatial intelligence services. Additionally, Rocket Lab plans to recover the Electron rocket’s first stage post-launch, aiding in their recovery and reuse program.

BlackSky Technology (NYSE: BKSY) has secured a contract worth over $150 million to deliver advanced space-based tactical GEOINT-as-a-service to an overseas ministry of defense. This multi-year contract aligns with the rollout of BlackSky's next-generation satellite constellation, emphasizing rapid revisit capabilities and automated low-latency intelligence delivery. The CEO noted that BlackSky's architecture is trusted by various international defense ministries, ensuring its relevance in modern operational demands. This service enhances the ability to provide real-time intelligence, making it a critical asset for tactical operators.

BlackSky Technology Inc. (NYSE: BKSY) has entered into agreements with institutional investors to issue 16,403,677 shares of Class A common stock at $1.79 per share, alongside warrants for the same number of shares with an exercise price of $2.20. This private placement is expected to yield approximately $29.5 million in gross proceeds, set to close by March 8, 2023, pending customary conditions. The funds will be allocated for corporate purposes and investments in BlackSky's space and software platforms. Jefferies LLC is the sole placement agent for this offering.

BlackSky Technology reported a strong performance for the full year 2022, achieving total revenue of $65.4 million, a 92% increase from the previous year. The fourth quarter alone saw revenues of $19.4 million, up 69%, driven by a 196% rise in imagery and software analytical services. BlackSky secured contracts worth up to $1.3 billion and expects 2023 revenues to range from $90 million to $96 million, marking a 42% growth. The company aims for positive adjusted EBITDA in Q4 2023, supported by a $150+ million contract with a major defense ministry and a successful $29.5 million private placement.

Spaceflight Inc. announced the upcoming launch of two BlackSky satellites aboard Rocket Lab's mission, "The Beat Goes On," from New Zealand. These satellites will expand BlackSky's constellation to 16 units, all manufactured by LeoStella. Spaceflight has supported all previous BlackSky satellite launches, highlighting a strong partnership. This mission emphasizes the importance of rapid access to space and efficient smallsat design. Additionally, Spaceflight aims to conduct up to 10 launches in 2023, continuing to innovate with its Sherpa OTV program for more flexible satellite delivery.

Rocket Lab is set to launch two dedicated Electron missions in March, utilizing its sites in Virginia and New Zealand. The first mission will deploy two SAR satellites for Capella Space, enhancing their imaging capabilities. Concurrently, the second mission will deliver two Earth-imaging satellites for BlackSky, expanding their geospatial intelligence services. Both launches demonstrate Rocket Lab's efficient launch turnaround and responsiveness to market demands. The missions are being conducted under established agreements, with a total of nine BlackSky satellites launched by Rocket Lab to date. These developments underscore Rocket Lab's competitive standing in the small satellite market.

Brian E. O’Toole, CEO of BlackSky Technology (NYSE: BKSY), has been nominated for Via Satellite’s 2022 Satellite Executive of the Year Award. This award recognizes significant contributions to the satellite industry, including technological innovations and best practices. Under O'Toole’s leadership, BlackSky doubled its satellite constellation capacity and secured a historic contract worth over $1 billion over the next decade. Voting for the award closes at noon ET on March 14, with the winner announced at the SATELLITE 2023 event on March 15.

BlackSky Technology Inc. (NYSE: BKSY) will host a conference call on March 7, 2023, at 8:30 a.m. ET to discuss its Q4 and full year 2022 results and business outlook. A press release with financial results will precede the call. Participants can access the live and archived webcasts via the company's investor relations website. For those wishing to join the call, dial-in numbers are 1-877-589-7299 (domestic) and 1-201-689-8778 (international). An audio replay will be available from 12:30 PM ET on March 7 until March 21, 2023.