Spaceflight Inc. Readies BlackSky Satellites for Upcoming Rocket Lab Launch

Rhea-AI Summary

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.

Positive

• Launch of two satellites enhances BlackSky's constellation to 16, demonstrating growth.
• Strong partnership with Spaceflight, which has managed all past satellite launches for BlackSky.
• Spaceflight plans up to 10 launches in 2023, indicating increased operational capacity.

Negative

• None.

Satellites manufactured by LeoStella delivered to Spaceflight for final integration

BELLEVUE, Wash.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Spaceflight Inc., a premier launch and in-space transportation services provider, announced it will launch two BlackSky (NYSE: BKSY) satellites aboard Rocket Lab’s next mission called “The Beat Goes On,” from Mahia, New Zealand. The spacecraft, now in New Zealand for the final stage of integration, were manufactured by U.S.-based satellite maker LeoStella, and co-engineered with BlackSky. The two spacecraft onboard the mission will be the 15th and 16th satellites in BlackSky’s growing constellation.

“We are excited to support another mission with our long-standing customer BlackSky in the development of its rapidly growing constellation,” said Tiphaine Louradour, CEO of Spaceflight. “Spaceflight has managed the launch services and missions for all of BlackSky’s satellites to date and we are pleased to continue this trusted partnership to achieve another successful mission.”

Spaceflight and LeoStella both offer services and expertise that enable a streamlined process of comprehensive, end-to-end support for BlackSky’s constellation. Everything from the satellite design and manufacturing to integration, mission management, and logistics occurred within a several-mile radius, minimizing the complexities and timeline required to support the mission.

“Rapid access to space is critical for our customers, including BlackSky. It requires efficient smallsat design and production and effective launch services and integration, as provided by Spaceflight,” said Tim Kienberger, CEO of LeoStella. “We greatly value the ongoing collaboration with Spaceflight and Rocket Lab. LeoStella is proud to have manufactured the last 16 satellites in BlackSky’s constellation, securing more than 29 years of on-orbit heritage and delivering 99% mission availability.”

Spaceflight, BlackSky and LeoStella all have facilities based in the greater-Seattle area, demonstrating the region’s leadership in the industry.

This represents Spaceflight’s second mission of 2023. The company plans to support up to 10 launches throughout the year, leveraging its vast global network of launch vehicle providers. In addition to traditional rideshare launches, Spaceflight continues to develop its Sherpa OTV program, preparing for the debut of the next variation in its OTV – Sherpa-ES, a higher energy variant with a bipropellant, high delta-V OTV that enables smallsat delivery anywhere in cislunar space.

About Spaceflight Inc.

As the premier global launch services provider, Spaceflight is revolutionizing the business of space transportation through its comprehensive suite of launch services and Sherpa® orbital transfer vehicles. The company provides unprecedented launch flexibility to ensure customers’ smallsats get to orbit exactly when and where they want through a combination of long-standing relationships with a diverse portfolio of launch partners, innovative satellite integration capabilities, including flight and ground support hardware, licensing and logistics management, and extensive mission management expertise. Based in Seattle, Spaceflight has successfully launched more than 460 spacecraft since it was founded in 2011. It is a part of the Mitsui & Co., Ltd. and Yamasa Co., Ltd. portfolio, operating as an independent, U.S.-based company. For more information, visit http://www.spaceflight.com

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230301005833/en/

Christie DeWald, Communiqué PR

Christine@CommuniquePR.com

206-282-4923 x127

Source: Spaceflight Inc.

FAQ

What is the significance of the two satellites launched by BlackSky (BKSY)?

The two satellites will increase BlackSky's constellation to 16 units, enhancing its operational capabilities.

When will the BlackSky (BKSY) satellites be launched?

The satellites are scheduled to launch aboard Rocket Lab's "The Beat Goes On" mission.

Who manufactured the BlackSky (BKSY) satellites for this launch?

The satellites were manufactured by LeoStella, based in the U.S.

What is Spaceflight's role in the launch of BlackSky (BKSY) satellites?

Spaceflight Inc. is providing launch services and has managed all previous launches for BlackSky.

How many launches does Spaceflight plan for 2023?

Spaceflight plans to support up to 10 launches throughout the year.