Planet Labs PBC (NYSE: PL), a prominent supplier of Earth observation data, has been named the lead subcontractor under California Air Resources Board's (CARB) Satellite Data Purchase Program (SDPP). The multi-year program, valued at $95 million, was awarded to Carbon Mapper, with Planet contributing methane monitoring data derived from its Tanager hyperspectral satellite series, alongside addit by Clarence Oxford
Los Angeles CA (SPX) Mar 24, 2025
Planet Labs PBC (NYSE: PL), a prominent supplier of Earth observation data, has been named the lead subcontractor under California Air Resources Board's (CARB) Satellite Data Purchase Program (SDPP). The multi-year program, valued at $95 million, was awarded to Carbon Mapper, with Planet contributing methane monitoring data derived from its Tanager hyperspectral satellite series, alongside additional satellite data offerings. The program's objective is to leverage Planet's capabilities to track methane emissions both within California and globally.
This partnership marks a strategic alliance between public, private, and philanthropic sectors, combining advanced commercial satellite technology, state-led research initiatives, and effective regulatory policies. The result is a cost-effective system that benefits taxpayers while supporting industries such as oil and gas and agriculture in reducing inefficiencies and minimizing waste. The program underscores a shared focus on economic efficiency and environmental responsibility.
Planet's hyperspectral satellite Tanager-1, launched in August 2024, was the company's second satellite to incorporate its Smallsat platform, following Pelican-1's deployment in November 2023. This platform features a vertically-integrated satellite bus and a global mission control infrastructure. Planet aims to expand its hyperspectral fleet with the launch of Tanager 2, 3, and 4, broadening its observational capabilities.
The Tanager smallsat constellation is engineered to deliver high-resolution, frequently updated hyperspectral data critical for a wide range of uses, including tracking greenhouse gas emissions, supporting defense operations, enhancing agricultural productivity, monitoring biodiversity, and assessing water quality. By supplying consistent global imagery and multi-spectral data, Planet enhances early warning systems, supports sustainable resource management, and enables better decision-making through improved situational awareness.
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