ABB secures $30 million order for satellite imaging technology

ABB has been awarded a contract worth around $30 million by the Canadian data and analytics company EarthDaily Analytics (EDA) to develop and manufacture next-generation multispectral imaging systems to be placed on 10 satellites (including an in-orbit spare) that will circle the Earth.

Multispectral imaging systems capture data at specific light frequencies across a wide spectrum, and the EarthDaily Constellation network of satellites will be able to provide high-quality imagery in 22 spectral bands with resolution down to five metres. 

“We are proud to collaborate with ABB on the development of the ground-breaking EarthDaily Constellation, which will provide unprecedented daily global coverage of the Earth at ultra-high, scientific-grade image quality,” said Don Osborne, CEO of EarthDaily Analytics. “Current Earth observation satellite systems provide either high image quality with low coverage or low image quality with high coverage. The EarthDaily Constellation brings high image quality and rich spectral band diversity together with daily global coverage – something that has never been available before.

ABB’s long track record of success at the forefront of space sensors and Earth observation provides us with not only best-in-class technology, but also the confidence that comes from working closely with a leading technology company.”

Once deployed on the network of satellites, ABB’s technology will continuously capture images of the planet’s land masses and large maritime areas as the satellites circle the Earth. EDA’s artificial intelligence-based analytics system will then process the data gathered from these images based on any recorded changes and generate actionable insights that will include information on the state of Earth’s ecosystems, as well as on the impact and progress of the changing climate.

In addition to providing insights into climate change, these measurements could help scientists address some of the world’s greatest challenges – from the monitoring of crop health to the prediction of forest fire trajectories. The data gathered provides valuable insight that enables increased support for positive environmental action, including conservation and sustainable resource management.