SpaceX successfully launched two Maxar Intelligence imaging satellites, known as Maxar-1, from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California. These satellites are the first two in a planned fleet of six known as the WorldView Legion. Equipped with high-resolution cameras, these satellites are capable of capturing precise images of small objects and features on Earth’s surface.
The launch, which marked the 20th flight of the Falcon 9 first stage booster supporting this mission, saw the first stage return to Landing Zone 4 at Vandenberg. This successful landing marked the 303rd booster landing for SpaceX, further solidifying their reputation for reusability.
Maxar confirmed the successful deployment of the satellites, with the first images expected to be available later this spring. The company had to overcome supply chain challenges and pandemic-related delays in developing and manufacturing the Legion satellites.
As the U.S. government’s primary provider of commercial electro-optical imagery, Maxar recently secured a $3.2 billion contract from the National Reconnaissance Office. With the successful launch of the Maxar-1 satellites, the company continues to solidify its position as a leader in the satellite imaging industry. Stay tuned for more updates as the WorldView Legion fleet continues to expand and capture detailed images of Earth’s surface.
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