Planet Labs and Google Cloud Data Analysis Partnership

Planet Labs and Google Cloud Expand Partnership

Planet Labs, a leading satellite operator, is strengthening its collaboration with Google Cloud. A newly established agreement enables Planet customers to leverage Google Cloud’s infrastructure for data storage and processing.

Access to Google’s Data Tools

Through this expanded partnership, users will gain access to Google’s suite of products, including the powerful data analytics warehouse, BigQuery. This integration facilitates advanced analysis of satellite imagery.

A History of Collaboration

The relationship between the two companies dates back to 2017. At that time, Google divested its satellite imaging division, Terra Bella, to Planet.

The original sale included a multiyear licensing agreement. This allowed Google to continue utilizing Planet’s Earth imaging capabilities.

Planet also currently relies on Google Cloud for its internal data processing and hosting requirements.

Meeting the Demand for Data Analysis

This latest agreement allows Planet’s clientele to utilize tools like BigQuery. This will enable the analysis of substantial volumes of satellite imaging data.

Planet stated this reflects an increasing need for planetary-scale data analysis, driven by cloud computing.

Benefits for Both Companies

“Planet customers require scalable computing and storage solutions,” explained Kevin Weil, President of Product and Business at Planet.

“Conversely, Google Cloud customers are seeking wider access to satellite data and analytics capabilities.”

Weil further emphasized that this partnership is mutually beneficial. It empowers customers to refine their operations and maintain competitiveness in today’s digital landscape, utilizing Planet’s distinctive data resources.

Planet’s Expansion and Public Offering

Planet operates a constellation of approximately 200 satellites – exceeding the number owned by any single government.

The company also provides analytical services based on the data it collects.

Recently, Planet announced plans to become a publicly traded company. This will be achieved through a $2.8 billion merger with the special purpose acquisition company (SPAC), dMY Technology Group IV.

This transaction is expected to provide Planet with $545 million in capital.

This includes a $200 million private investment from funds managed by BlackRock, Koch Strategic Platforms, TIME Ventures (Marc Benioff’s investment firm), and Google.