Albedo

Albedo is pioneering very low Earth orbit (VLEO) satellite imaging, operating satellites between 250-450 km altitude to deliver unprecedented 10-centimeter resolution optical imagery at dramatically lower costs than traditional systems. The Denver-based company's unique satellite bus platform enables operation in the denser atmosphere of VLEO.

Clarity-1, the first satellite of Albedo's constellation, successfully launched on March 15, 2025 aboard SpaceX Transporter-13. The 530-kg satellite measures approximately 3 meters tall and 1 meter wide, using ion thrusters to continuously counteract atmospheric drag significantly stronger in VLEO. In June 2024, Albedo signed the launch contract with SpaceX.

The satellites collect 10-centimeter optical imagery and 2-meter thermal longwave infrared imagery, far exceeding the 30-centimeter resolution offered by leading optical imagery providers. This resolution enables identification of objects as small as 10 centimeters, opening new applications in defense, infrastructure monitoring, and commercial analytics.

In January 2024, Albedo raised $35 million in Series A-1 funding led by Standard Investments, bringing total funding to $97 million. Booz Allen Hamilton's venture arm made a strategic investment in the company. The National Reconnaissance Office awarded Albedo a contract for VLEO imaging capabilities, while the U.S. Air Force awarded a separate contract worth up to $12 million. Albedo plans an initial six-satellite constellation providing daily revisits, ultimately expanding to 24 satellites for five daily passes over any location.