Industry · Space intelligence
BlackSky's capital spending outpaces operating cash in record revenue quarter
Third-quarter operating cash fell short of capital spending by about $11.8 million. BlackSky raised its full-year revenue outlook.
BlackSky reported record third-quarter revenue of $42.8 million on Nov. 5. Revenue rose 29% from the second quarter.1 Adjusted EBITDA, a non-GAAP measure, rose to $12.8 million from $4.7 million over the same period.1–2
BlackSky raised full-year 2026 outlook to revenue of $140-150 million
full year revenue
The Company expects full year revenue between $130 million and $150 million
The Company now expects revenue to be between $140 million and $150 million
Source: BlackSky second- and third-quarter 2026 results releases, SEC. As of Nov. 5, 2026.
Sources
Operating cash covered only part of the quarter's capital spending.1 The six- and nine-month cash flow statements imply third-quarter operating cash inflow of about $3.6 million, against $15.4 million in capital expenditures.1–2 In the first six months, operating activities used $5.9 million.2
Cash, cash equivalents, restricted cash and short-term investments totaled $231.1 million at Sept. 30.1 That was down $13.0 million from June 30.1–2 BlackSky had raised $150 million through its at-the-market equity program in the second quarter.2
In its second-quarter filing, BlackSky said it expected cash, short-term investments and operating cash to cover working capital and capital spending needs for the foreseeable future.4
BlackSky raised the lower end of its 2026 revenue outlook.1–2 It now expects $140 million to $150 million. It maintained its capital expenditure forecast at $50 million to $60 million.1
Also announced
BlackSky reported its selection as exclusive provider of very-high resolution optical satellites for an initial 50-satellite constellation. The constellation falls under a $1 billion investment through a consortium including France and the UAE.1
Reported quarterly capital spending totals $46.6 million through September. That leaves $3.4 million to $13.4 million for the fourth quarter within the annual outlook, if the quarterly figures and outlook use the same definition.1 BlackSky said in its second-quarter filing that it can manage the timing of much of its capital spending, including the design, build and launch of satellites under development.4
Sources (4)
- BlackSky third-quarter 2026 results release (8-K Exhibit 99, Nov. 5, 2026) www.sec.gov
- BlackSky second-quarter 2026 results release (Aug. 6, 2026) www.sec.gov
- BlackSky first-quarter 2026 results release (May 7, 2026) www.sec.gov
- BlackSky Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2026 www.sec.gov