Capella Space Successfully Launches Two Satellites and Demonstrates Automated SAR Satellite Deployment in One Week

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Capella Space Corp., an American space tech pioneer with data and satellite solutions for government and commercial use, has achieved a significant milestone by launching two third-generation satellites, Capella-13 (C-13) and Capella-15 (C-15), within just five days. Each satellite was rapidly deployed through Capella’s unique automated commissioning process, demonstrating Capella’s ability to quickly respond to customers’ emerging needs.

“Our ability to launch and fully commission two satellites in less than one week is a testament to the automation and operational efficiencies we’ve built at Capella,” said Frank Backes, CEO of Capella Space. “This rapid deployment showcases our capability to quickly reconstitute satellites and deliver critical data to our customers—vital for responsive and time-sensitive missions.”

C-13 was launched on August 11 from Rocket Lab's launch pad in Mahia, New Zealand, as part of the “A Sky Full of SARs” mission, deploying Capella’s C-13 SAR satellite into a mid-inclination orbit. Just five days later, on August 16, C-15 was launched via SpaceX’s Transporter-11 mission from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California, entering a polar orbit to enhance global SAR coverage. High-resolution, high-quality first light imagery from both satellites showcases Capella’s ability to quickly provide reliable data shortly after launch and commissioning.

“Our vertically integrated manufacturing capabilities and automation allow us to rapidly bring fully operational satellites online, ensuring they’re ready to deliver critical insights when they’re needed most,” added Christian Lenz, CTO of Capella Space.

The Capella team managed the entire process from manufacturing to launch and commissioning, highlighting the company’s ability to rapidly innovate and execute. As Capella continues to scale its operations, the company is focused on further enhancing its automation capabilities, crucial for maintaining force readiness and supporting rapid response scenarios.

“We are building the future of space operations, where speed, reliability, and automation are key,” said Backes. “Our rapid launch and commissioning approach is revolutionizing the industry, and we’re excited to continue leading the way.”

Capella Space is ramping up its continuous manufacturing capabilities to better serve its growing customer base. These advancements not only enable the quick reconstitution of satellites but are also crucial for maintaining force readiness and supporting rapid response scenarios. Capella is slated to launch additional satellites into a variety of orbits through a series of SpaceX Rideshare missions from late-2024 through mid-2025. These missions will launch the company’s third-generation Acadia satellites to enhance Capella’s existing satellite constellation with higher power, increased bandwidth, improved payload downlink and reduced latency.

Backes will be speaking September 20, 2024 at World Space Business Week in Paris about the continued growth of Capella Space and the SAR industry. Learn more at the Summit on Earth Observation Business – “Dual Usage in SAR: Toward New Market Perspectives.”