What type of satellite is Skysat operated by?

The correct answer identifies Skysat as a satellite operated by Terra Bella, which was a subsidiary of Google before being acquired by Planet Labs. Understanding the operational context of Skysat is essential, as it provides high-resolution imagery for various applications, such as agriculture, environmental monitoring, and urban planning. Terra Bella, being the original operator, developed Skysat with advanced imaging capabilities that set it apart in the satellite imaging industry.

The relevance of this information lies in how Terra Bella focused on integrating machine learning and advanced satellite technology to enhance the utility of the imagery provided. This aligns with the increased demand for precise geospatial data in various sectors.

The other options pertain to different organizations or satellites, which may not be directly related to Skysat. For instance, Planet Labs is the entity that ultimately operates Skysat after acquiring Terra Bella; however, the identification of the original operator reflects a historical context significant to understanding the satellite's lineage. DigitalGlobe operates a different range of satellites, which also provide high-resolution data but are distinct from Skysat. GeoIQ is less commonly linked to directly operating satellites and is more focused on data analysis and geospatial information systems.