Overview
The BlackSky Gen-3 constellation represents a significant leap in commercial Earth observation capability. Beginning deployment in 2025, these next-generation satellites deliver 35cm resolution—more than double the detail of the Gen-2 fleet—with the addition of short-wave infrared (SWIR) imaging capability.
Enhanced Resolution
With 35cm resolution at nadir, Gen-3 satellites provide unprecedented detail for:
- Vehicle identification - Distinguish individual vehicle types
- Infrastructure detail - Assess equipment and structural features
- Activity analysis - Identify specific activities and objects
- Damage assessment - Detailed impact evaluation
SWIR Capability
The addition of short-wave infrared imaging enables new applications:
- Camouflage detection - See through certain concealment techniques
- Material identification - Distinguish between surface types
- Thermal signatures - Detect heat-emitting activities
- All-condition imaging - Penetrate haze and thin clouds
Expanded Constellation
The Gen-3 program targets 30 satellites for maximum revisit:
- Current status - 3 satellites operational (as of early 2025)
- Near-term - 8 satellites operational by Q1 2026
- Full constellation - Up to 30 satellites for 6-10 daily passes
Improved Performance
Gen-3 satellites feature enhanced capabilities:
- Faster retargeting - Under 1 minute between targets (vs. 2 minutes for Gen-2)
- Wider swath - 7km footprint (vs. 4km for Gen-2)
- Higher capacity - >1.2 million sq km daily per satellite
- Better accuracy - 35-70cm CE90 with ground control
Applications
BlackSky Gen-3's capabilities support advanced applications:
- Defense - High-resolution intelligence with SWIR for enhanced detection
- Maritime - Vessel identification and port monitoring
- Energy - Pipeline and facility monitoring with thermal detection
- Emergency response - Rapid, detailed damage assessment
