Weekly delivery limits in the Subscriptions API

If you are looking for high predictability and want to avoid spending your allocation on imagery that doesn't add value, you might be wondering if you can cap your subscription to a few assets per week (e.g., "just send me the two best images every seven days").

While we understand the need for optimization, here is a breakdown of how the system currently handles delivery and the best ways for you to stay in control of your usage.

Is Weekly Recurrence Supported?

Currently, the Subscriptions API does not support a weekly frequency (FREQ=WEEKLY).

Our API is currently optimized for monthly recurrence. If you try to apply a weekly rule to your subscription, it won't be recognized. We are exploring "best look" logic for the future—which would allow you to automatically receive the least cloudy or most recent scene in a set timeframe—but that feature is not yet available.

Your Best Options for Optimization

Since you cannot currently set a "hard limit" on the number of weekly deliveries via a subscription, we recommend the following two strategies to keep your consumption predictable.

1. Use the Orders API (The High-Precision Choice)

If you only need 2–3 assets per week, the Orders API (or the Explorer UI) is likely your best tool.

  • How to do it: Use the Data API to search for imagery, then filter for the specific "least cloudy" or "most recent" assets that meet your needs. You then place an order only for those specific images.

  • Why it works: You have 100% control over your spend. You only spend on the exact images you select.

2. Tighten Your Subscription Filters (The Automation Choice)

If you prefer the "set it and forget it" nature of a subscription, you can still limit "low-value" images by making your entry criteria much stricter:

  • Cloud Cover: Lower your threshold (e.g., set it to 5% instead of 20%).

  • AOI Coverage: Set a minimum coverage requirement so you aren't paying for images that only capture a small corner of your area.

  • Refine your AOI: Ensure your Area of Interest is drawn as precisely as possible.

Comparison: Which Method Fits Your Workflow?

Feature Subscriptions API Orders API
Delivery Style Fully Automated Manual or Programmatic
Budget Control Variable (Depends on satellite passes) Total Control (You choose the assets)
Weekly Limits Not supported User-defined (Just order what you need)
Best For Constant, 24/7 monitoring Specific, high-quality weekly reporting
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