Observable Space Emerges as a Leader in Space Observation with merger of OurSky and PlaneWave Instruments
MOUNTAIN VIEW, Calif. – In a groundbreaking move,Los Angeles-based startup OurSky has merged with telescope manufacturer PlaneWave instruments to form Observable Space,a vertically integrated company poised to revolutionize space observation. The merger,announced on February 4,combines cutting-edge software and hardware to address critical gaps in the multibillion-dollar commercial space sector.
“Everyone knows that telescopes are the cornerstone of cosmic observation and exploration, but what people don’t realize is that they are also extremely critical for the multibillion-dollar commercial space sector,” said Daniel Roelker, CEO of Observable Space and former SpaceX vice president of software engineering. “Our vertically integrated space observation products provide the foundational elements customers need to understand, navigate and operate in space.”
Observable Space plans to offer software-defined telescopes and a platform for real-time space data and analysis, aiming to establish “the world’s largest telescope network.” This aspiring vision builds on the legacy of its predecessor companies, which have already served over 1,000 customers, including NASA, Northrop Grumman, Raytheon Technologies, the U.S. Space Force, harvard University, and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology Lincoln Laboratory.
as an example, NASA utilized a planewave telescope to transmit optical data from the ground to the TeraByte Infrared Delivery payload in low-Earth orbit, showcasing the potential of these advanced systems.
“With this merger, we can better serve our current customers, while also enhancing our offerings to meet the needs of the entire space community,” said Richard hedrick, Observable Space President and co-founder. by integrating hardware and software, the company aims to make it possible for customers of any skill level to “easily connect and control these very powerful, top-of-the-line telescopes from a smartphone or laptop,” Hedrick added.
Observable Space and its predecessors have raised $11 million from notable investors, including In-Q-Tel, the U.S. intelligence community’s investment arm, Upfront Ventures, Venrex Investment Management, Oceans Ventures, Marlinspike Partners, and Embedded Ventures.
The company operates from its Los Angeles headquarters and a manufacturing and optics research facility in Adrian, Michigan, employing about 100 people.
Key Highlights of Observable space
| Aspect | Details |
|————————–|—————————————————————————–|
| Merger | OurSky and PlaneWave Instruments merge to form Observable Space |
| Focus | vertically integrated software and hardware for space observation |
| Key offerings | Software-defined telescopes, real-time space data and analysis platform |
| Vision | Establish the world’s largest telescope network |
| Notable Customers | NASA, Northrop Grumman, Raytheon Technologies, U.S. Space Force, Harvard |
| Funding | $11 million raised from In-Q-Tel, Upfront Ventures, and others |
| Locations | Headquarters in Los Angeles, manufacturing facility in Adrian, Michigan |
Observable Space’s merger marks a significant step forward in the space observation industry, offering innovative solutions that cater to both commercial and scientific needs. As the company continues to expand its network and capabilities, it is indeed set to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of space exploration and operations.
For more insights into the latest advancements in space technology, explore how NASA’s laser communications are transforming data transmission in orbit.
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