GeoEye, Inc. announced that it has received antitrust clearance from the U.S. Department of Justice in connection with its pending combination with DigitalGlobe, Inc. 

As previously announced, on July 23, 2012, the boards of directors of both GeoEye and DigitalGlobe unanimously approved a definitive merger agreement under which the companies will combine. Completion of the transaction is subject to satisfaction of other customary closing conditions, including obtaining regulatory approval from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). GeoEye is working cooperatively with the FCC and NOAA, and the transaction is expected to close by January 31, 2013. Shareowners of both GeoEye and DigitalGlobe have previously voted overwhelmingly in favor of the combination. Simultaneous with the closing of the transaction, the company expects to complete a $1.2 billion refinancing, which is expected to include a combination of senior notes and senior secured credit facilities.

Pursuant to the Agreement and Plan of Merger between the parties and the anticipated closing date of January 31, 2013, all stockholder election forms with respect to the consideration to be received in the merger by GeoEye stockholders must be received by the Exchange Agent, American Stock Transfer & Trust Company, LLC (AST) by no later than 5:00 p.m., New York City time, on January 29, 2013.  Further information regarding the stockholder election form may be obtained by contacting AST toll free at (877) 825 – 8619.