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Jun 18, 20261
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NASA Expands Earth Observation Capabilities with Eight New Commercial Satellite Data Partners
NASA has selected eight new companies and extended contracts with six existing partners for commercial satellite data acquisition, with a combined maximum contract value of $476 million through November 2028. The program aims to enhance Earth observations and support scientific research and public safety through high-resolution satellite imagery.
Quick Facts
Who
NASA
What
NASA selected eight new companies for commercial satellite data acquisition
When
June 18, 2026 (announcement date)
Where
United States
- NASA selected eight new companies for commercial satellite data acquisition
- NASA extended agreements with six existing Commercial Satellite Data Acquisition contract holders
- Commercial satellite data will supplement NASA's Earth satellites
- High-resolution and frequent observations will be provided to researchers and agencies
- NASA
NASA has selected eight new companies and extended agreements with six existing partners under its Commercial Satellite Data Acquisition Program to significantly expand access to high-resolution satellite imagery for researchers, civil agencies, and decision-makers. The initiative represents NASA's commitment to leveraging public-private partnerships to enhance Earth observations while reducing costs and accelerating data delivery. The new awardees include Airbus DS Geo Inc., GHGSat Inc., Hydrosat Inc., ICEYE US Inc., ImageSat International, Kuva US Inc., Muon Space Inc., and Orbital Sidekick Inc., alongside continuing partners OroraTech USA Inc., Planet Labs Federal Inc., Space Sciences and Engineering LLC (PlanetiQ), SATLANTIS US, Tomorrow Companies Inc. (Tomorrow.io), and Wyvern Inc.
The Commercial Satellite Data Acquisition Program On-Ramp 2 Multiple Award contract is structured as a firm-fixed-price, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity agreement with a maximum value of $476 million. The performance period began in 2023 and continues through November 15, 2028. By integrating commercial satellite data with NASA's own Earth observation systems, the program aims to provide comprehensive environmental intelligence that benefits scientific research, strengthens disaster response capabilities, and improves public safety across the United States.
Commercial satellite data complements NASA's Earth satellites by contributing frequent, high-resolution observations that enhance the agency's overall data portfolio. This cost-effective approach allows NASA to identify, evaluate, and acquire specialized commercial satellite products without building and maintaining all observation systems independently. The expanded partnerships reflect NASA's strategy to optimize resources while advancing Earth science research and operational decision-making for federal agencies and the broader scientific community.
Why This Matters
This expansion significantly strengthens NASA's Earth observation capabilities by leveraging cost-effective commercial partnerships rather than building independent systems. For researchers, emergency responders, and federal agencies, more frequent high-resolution satellite imagery translates to better disaster response, improved climate monitoring, and faster environmental intelligence—ultimately enhancing public safety and scientific decision-making across the United States.
Timeline & Sources
Jan 1, 2023
WireCommercial Satellite Data Acquisition Program On-Ramp 2 Multiple Award contract performance period begins
Jun 18, 2026
WireNASA announces selection of eight new companies and extension of agreements with six existing partners for commercial satellite data acquisition
Nov 15, 2028
WireCommercial Satellite Data Acquisition Program contract performance period concludes