Planet and Isar Aerospace Partner to Launch First German-Built Satellite-Rocket Mission
The partnership marks a major step toward German sovereign space capabilities, with a German-built satellite launching on a German-built rocket planned within 12 months of agreement
Planet Labs Germany, a leading provider of daily data and insights about change on Earth, and European space company Isar Aerospace today announced a strategic launch agreement. Under the agreement, Isar Aerospace will launch one of Planet’s next-generation high-resolution Pelican satellites, with additional satellites planned for future launches.
The Pelican is scheduled to fly on Isar Aerospace's Spectrum launch vehicle, currently scheduled as early as late 2026 from Isar Aerospace’s dedicated launch complex at Andøya Space. The Pelican will be assembled in Planet’s upcoming Berlin manufacturing facility. With both satellite and rocket being built in Germany, this launch will be a national first for the country, demonstrating rapid advancements in the nation’s sovereign space capabilities.
“Germany has set out an ambitious space agenda. Planet and Isar Aerospace are responding to the moment and delivering a first for the country: both satellite and rocket built in Germany,” said Martin Polak, Managing Director of Planet Labs Germany. “Most excitingly our joint teams have set an ambitious goal to do this first launch within less than 12 months of agreement – showcasing our agile aerospace approach and supporting rapidly evolving national priorities across security, resilience and civil applications.”
