Session
Technical Session I: Private Endeavors
Abstract
In 2014 Planet Labs has – so far – launched two constellations of small satellites: Flock 1 comprising 28 satellites and 11 in Flock 1c. Additional launches are planned in the year, with Flock 1b scheduled for launch at the time of writing. With launch contracts already signed for more than 200 satellites and 43 already launched, when completed the Flock will be the largest constellation of satellites ever launched. A system of this scale would be extravagantly expensive if comprised of traditional satellite elements, yet we have attempted this with venture capital funding at a level that would be considered irrationally small by most aerospace standards. Thus, to accomplish our mission significant innovation is required in all segments of the operation. In this paper, we discuss the core engineering philosophies of Planet Labs, and the way in which our Flock is different than anything that precedes it.
Presentation
Results from the Planet Labs Flock Constellation
In 2014 Planet Labs has – so far – launched two constellations of small satellites: Flock 1 comprising 28 satellites and 11 in Flock 1c. Additional launches are planned in the year, with Flock 1b scheduled for launch at the time of writing. With launch contracts already signed for more than 200 satellites and 43 already launched, when completed the Flock will be the largest constellation of satellites ever launched. A system of this scale would be extravagantly expensive if comprised of traditional satellite elements, yet we have attempted this with venture capital funding at a level that would be considered irrationally small by most aerospace standards. Thus, to accomplish our mission significant innovation is required in all segments of the operation. In this paper, we discuss the core engineering philosophies of Planet Labs, and the way in which our Flock is different than anything that precedes it.
