This article was published on June 10, 2014

Google buying Skybox Imaging for satellite photos and to beam internet access to Earth


Google buying Skybox Imaging for satellite photos and to beam internet access to Earth

Today Google announced that it had signed an acquisition agreement for Skybox Imaging, a satellite company, for $500 million in cash.

In a blog post Google explained the acquisition:

Skybox’s satellites will help keep Google Maps accurate with up-to-date imagery. Over time, we also hope that Skybox’s team and technology will be able to help improve Internet access and disaster relief — areas Google has long been interested in.

In addition to the obvious benefits to Google Maps and Google Earth, Skybox’s satellites could be used as a means to provide internet access to locations off the broadband grid. The company already has its Project Loon internet-sharing balloons deployed. Adding satellites to the mix would expand the company’s reach.

Skybox stated in a blog post that pending approval of the deal, it will continue to do business as usual.

Image: Getty/AFP

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