An upstart operating out of Edmonton wants to “reveal the invisible truth of earth.”
What does Wyvern Space mean by that? The Alberta firm is utilizing high-resolution hyperspectral imaging technology to uncover a range of what it calls “invisible problems” from space.
The Canadian space data company taps satellites and hyperspectral tech to generate data that “reveals the hidden reality of planet Earth.” If this still seems vague, that’s partly due to the tech’s broad array of applications; Wyvern cites use cases across agriculture, forestry, mining, energy, defence, and more.
In agriculture, for example, Wyvern’s platform can provide early and precise crop disease detection, as well as higher inventory accuracy and advanced soil sampling techniques. Within the defence industry, the tech can detect anomalies and changes in military environments including critical targets for ground operations.
“When you know the geochemical reality of what’s happening on the ground, you can identify opportunities to address planetary-scale problems,” the company posits.
Established in 2018, Wyvern currently operates a constellation of satellites, dubbed “Dragonette,” with a next generation of satellite technology already in development.
“The first satellites in our Dragonette constellation are currently in orbit and providing data scientists and analysts with reliable access to hyperspectral imagery,” the company states online. “Our next generation of satellites is currently in development and will leverage cutting-edge technology to capture even better data across a larger spectral range and at a higher resolution.”
Last month, Wyvern announced a US$6 million strategic investment round from Squadra Ventures, Uncork Capital, Y Combinator, the University of Alberta Innovation Fund, Accelerate Fund III, and angel investors with intentions to expand further into the U.S. market.
“This investment reinforces our commitment to providing the best quality, highest resolution commercial hyperspectral imagery from space,” said chief executive officer Chris Robson. “It positions us to scale in the U.S., one of the largest markets for remote sensing data, while continuing to drive innovation here in Alberta.”
Wyvern was founded by Robson, Kurtis Broda, Callie Lissinna, and Kristen Cote and today has more than 30 employees.
“Wyvern’s success is a great example of Alberta’s thriving technology industry,” stated Nate Glubish, Alberta’s Minister of Technology and Innovation.
The Government of Alberta is partnering with Wyvern through its GovLab.AI program and has previously invested in firm.
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