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WASHINGTON — Maxar Intelligence announced an agreement with radar imaging startup Array Labs to secure capacity on its constellation set to launch in 2026.
Array Labs, based in Palo Alto, California, is developing a 3D radar imaging constellation designed to operate in clusters, with swarms of small satellites working together to capture simultaneous images of the same location on Earth. Using synthetic aperture radar (SAR) sensors, Array Labs plans to capture high-resolution 3D imagery of the Earth regardless of lighting or weather conditions.
The partnership represents Maxar’s latest effort to diversify beyond its traditional electro-optical satellite imaging business. Westminster, Colorado-based Maxar Intelligence operates a constellation of high-resolution electro-optical imaging satellites but also partners with other remote sensing companies to integrate their data into its products.
The partnership with Array Labs aligns with Maxar’s goal of adding more 3D data to its Earth observation products, said Peter Wilczynski, chief product officer at Maxar Intelligence.
Maxar’s goal, he said, is to build a “living globe, a highly accurate, real-time 3D representation of Earth.”
SAR technology allows satellites to capture images through clouds and darkness, providing data collection capabilities that complement traditional optical satellites which require clear skies and daylight. The technology has become increasingly important for commercial Earth observation as customers demand more frequent and reliable data collection.
Array Labs launched its first two prototype satellites in 2024. The company plans to launch its next demonstration mission in 2026, followed by the deployment of its first full production cluster — comprising four formation-flying satellites designed for commercial 3D imagery and large-scale mapping.
Under the agreement, the two companies will work to integrate Array Labs data into the Maxar 3D product line.
“This collaboration will help to change how the world accesses, understands, and derives value from 3D data,” said Isaac Robledo, cofounder of Array Labs. “By combining our unique space systems and collection capabilities with Maxar’s global terrain products, we are expanding the aperture of what’s possible with 3D data.”
The Array Labs partnership follows Maxar’s strategy of building what it calls a “virtual constellation” by partnering with satellite operators, including SAR imaging company Umbra and multi-spectral satellite operator Satellogic.
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