A satellite startup could be Google's next purchase

According to a report, Google is interested in buying Skybox Imaging, a California-based startup that builds high-resolution imaging microsatellites and provides a platform to view the data. Because apparently Google needs satellites now that Facebook has drones.

As The Information states, the purchase would line up nicely with Google's mapping ambitions. Skybox Imaging's microsatellites would provide Google with its own fleet of cameras in the sky, allowing the search giant to capture its own imaging for Google Earth.

Currently, SkyBox Imaging provides businesses and investors with sub-meter imaging captured by its constellation of satellites. The company produces and provides everything from the satellites in the sky to the data-analytics platforms used by its customers.

Skybox Imaging has raised $91 million over three rounds of funding since it was founded in 2009. The Information also reports that the company is looking at additional venture funding in order to increase development. Its last round was two years ago when it closed a massive $70 million Series C round led by Canaan Partners and Norwest Venture Partners.

While its aim is different, Google, like Facebook, is clearly looking for a way to spread its reach. Facebook's move into drones is largely centered around providing Internet access. If Google is indeed purchasing Skybox Imaging, the move would further its quest to catalog the world.

This story originally appeared on TechCrunch.

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