What satellites are typically launched to Sun-Synchronous Orbit?

Earth observation, remote sensing, and communications smallsats are commonly launched to Sun-Synchronous Orbit. CubeSats and SmallSats below 500kg are the most frequent payload types on rideshare missions to this orbit.

How do I find a rideshare slot to Sun-Synchronous Orbit?

Browse the launch windows listed on this page. Filter by rocket, provider, and schedule to find a rideshare mission matching your mission requirements. Each window shows available service offers with pricing.

What is the average cost to launch a 3U CubeSat to Sun-Synchronous Orbit?

CubeSat rideshare prices to Sun-Synchronous Orbit typically range from $5,000 to $12,000 for a 3U, depending on the provider and rocket. Compare current offers on KOSMOLAB SPACE for the latest pricing.

Orbit · SSO

Sun-Synchronous Orbit Launch Services

Browse 122 launch windows targeting Sun-Synchronous orbit. Compare rideshare slots, providers, and book your CubeSat deployment.

122 Launch windows

17 Rocket types

16 Providers

400–800 km · 97–98° Altitude / inclination

Sun-Synchronous Orbit (SSO) is the preferred orbit for Earth observation and remote sensing missions, maintaining a constant sun angle that ensures consistent lighting across successive passes. SSO missions fly at altitudes of 400–800 km with inclinations near 97–98°, allowing the satellite to image any ground location at the same local solar time on each revisit.

For commercial SmallSat operators, SSO offers the most predictable imaging geometry, making it ideal for vegetation monitoring, maritime surveillance, infrastructure inspection, and disaster response. The vast majority of Planet, Spire, and similar constellation operators have chosen SSO for this reason.

From a rideshare standpoint, SSO is well-served by Rocket Lab Electron (Mahia, NZ launch site provides natural SSO inclination), ISRO PSLV, and dedicated SSO Transporter rideshares. KOSMOLAB SPACE aggregates SSO launch opportunities across providers, allowing you to compare schedules, payload volumes, and pricing. Use the filters below to narrow by orbit altitude, deployer type, or available mass capacity.