BlackSky Blog

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by | Jan 23, 2024

Space-based intelligence: providing next generation tactical access for defense applications

When it comes to making defense decisions in real-time, space-based intelligence is a tool that stands out among the rest, allowing decision makers to see, understand and anticipate change as it happens. 

Global trends highlight the need for rapid intelligence and fast action: 

  • As regional conflicts become global threats, timely situational awareness is critical.  
  • The economic impact of supply chain uncertainty has created growing demand for early warnings of disruptive events.  
  • Governments are increasing spend on intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities for activities within and outside their borders. 

Space-based intelligence shifts the paradigm from static mapping to real-time, dynamic monitoring, providing timely insight. The integration of these capabilities into analyst workflows is now shaping the way decisions are made. 

In this post, we briefly cover the fundamentals that enable organizations to orchestrate real-time, tech-driven responses, giving them the power to act not just fast – but first. 

What is space-based intelligence?

Space-based intelligence combines the collection and analysis of information captured from Earth observation (EO) satellites. These satellites are equipped with a variety of sensors and high-resolution cameras, providing a comprehensive view over any area of interest (AOI).

Once imagery is collected, the data is processed using advanced artificial intelligence to derive critical insights such as patterns, trends and anomalies. This analysis process quickly transforms raw information into actionable intelligence.  

Space-based systems provide the most recent information on ongoing events, troop movement and evolving scenarios, as well as play a pivotal role in enhancing situational awareness and strategic decision making across a spectrum of applications. This real-time awareness transforms a reactionary process into a proactive, anticipatory one, giving an unparalleled edge in the face of dynamic threats. 

A smarter approach to space

While accurate mapping has value, monitoring change and turning information into foresight that can shape decisions has power. BlackSky is on a mission to push the strategic advantage of foresight to the furthest corners of the battlefield through real-time intelligence.

Graphic illustration showcasing BlackSky's mid-inclined orbits as opposed to traditional satellite mapping trajectories.

We own and operate the world’s most advanced space-based intelligence platform, BlackSky Spectra®. Customers not only get satellite imagery, but automated analytics and high-frequency monitoring of strategic locations, economic assets, and events around the globe. BlackSky data and analytics help governments and businesses see, understand and anticipate change, providing the ultimate strategic advantage to act quickly when minutes matter. 

BlackSky provides immediate insights

From satellite tasking and capture to delivery and automated analysis, BlackSky achieves industry-leading speed through a unique constellation design and a dedication to end-to-end system automation. Our satellite constellation contains built-in, automated processing systems and flies in inclined orbits, which provide customers with low-latency tasking and collection-to-delivery timelines of under 90 minutes. With rapid, hourly revisit rates, Spectra® delivers time-diverse imagery and analytics up to 15 times per day. 

Customers get customized control

Through the Spectra® platform, BlackSky customers experience the speed and ease of click-enabled tasking with the option to seamlessly select advanced product features and view feasibility – even from a mobile device. End users no longer need to be geospatial data experts. Intuitive features are accompanied by the ability to customize priority options for collecting data, accommodating users’ needs for real-time awareness in fluid mission settings. 

As intelligence tools continue to develop, so do the challenges defense decision makers must face. BlackSky is redefining the art and science of decision making in defense. Interested in unlocking the ability to act not just fast, but first? Let us show you how to harness the power of a superpower. 

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