Exolaunch to Deploy Satellites for Capella Space, Pixxel
NAOS Mission Set to Expand Earth Observation Constellations
Exolaunch is preparing to deploy satellites for Capella Space, Pixxel, and an undisclosed U.S. commercial customer on the SpaceX NAOS mission, scheduled for no earlier than August 26th, 2025 from Vandenberg Space Force Base, California. The mission will support the expansion of advanced Earth observation satellite constellations.
“We’re proud to continue enabling fast, reliable access to space for industry leaders.”
Jeanne Allarie, Exolaunch.
The mission marks Exolaunch’s second launch for Capella Space, following the successful deployment of its Acadia-5 satellite in 2024. For Pixxel, Exolaunch will deploy three new Firefly satellites, adding to the four previously launched to enhance Pixxel’s hyperspectral imaging capabilities. Additionally, two satellites for an undisclosed U.S. customer will be deployed using Exolaunch’s CarboNIX separation systems.
Exolaunch has a history of collaboration with SpaceX, having deployed 34 satellites on Transporter-12, 27 on Transporter-13, and a record 45 on Transporter-14 in June 2025. The company has secured contracts for SpaceX Falcon 9 rideshare missions through 2028, ensuring continued support for global satellite deployments.
“With this new mission, we’re not only contributing to the growth of the world’s most advanced satellite constellations for our customers, but thanks to SpaceX we’re also expanding valuable new launch capacity beyond traditional Transporter missions. We’re proud to continue enabling fast, reliable access to space for industry leaders like Capella Space, Pixxel, and more — and we are grateful to SpaceX for making additional missions available to our long-standing customers.”
Our Take
The NAOS mission strengthens the capabilities of Earth observation technologies, which are critical for monitoring climate change, agriculture, and urban development.
By deploying advanced hyperspectral and SAR satellites, companies like Capella Space and Pixxel can provide detailed data for industries and governments, driving innovation and informed decision-making.