Google's Project Suncatcher prototype reaches orbit

On Oct. 1, 2026, a prototype satellite from Google's Project Suncatcher, developed with Planet, reached orbit on a SpaceX mission and established contact with the ground. The spacecraft will test how commercial components perform in space.

• Launched on Oct. 1, 2026, aboard a SpaceX mission
• Satellite developed by Google with Planet
• The spacecraft made contact with ground stations
• Goal is testing commercial components in orbit