Planet Labs Launches AI-Focused Earth Observation Satellite, Expands UK Presence

Planet Labs PBC recently launched Pelican-11, a Gen 2 tech demonstration satellite on SpaceX’s Transporter-17 mission from Vandenberg, beginning on-orbit testing to validate higher-resolution, AI-focused imaging technologies that are not intended for commercial data use.

In parallel, Planet Labs UK has opened a central London office as a hub for AI and analytics partnerships with UK government and NATO stakeholders, signaling a deeper commitment to the UK space and defence ecosystem.

Next, we’ll examine how Pelican-11’s Gen 2 technology pathfinding may influence Planet Labs’ investment narrative and long-term Earth observation strategy.