Satellite Monitoring of Earth poised to more than double in the upcoming decade

In the coming decade, the number of Earth Observation (EO) satellites in orbit is set to triple, marking a significant leap in our ability to monitor and protect our planet.

These satellites are indispensable tools in environmental conservation, providing crucial data on deforestation, ocean health, and biodiversity. They serve as our eyes in the sky, offering insights that would otherwise remain hidden.

Over the past few years, several countries have launched new civil satellite constellations for Earth observation. While specific details about new launches during this period are scarce, Ukraine is known to be utilising a satellite constellation for these purposes. However, the expansion of satellite networks is not limited to Ukraine alone.

As the market expands, EO satellites will play a critical role in addressing global challenges such as climate change, food security, and disaster response. The growth of the EO satellite market is driven by technological advancements, global investments, and increasing demand for satellite-based data services.

In urban areas, EO satellites support infrastructure development, monitoring construction projects, traffic patterns, and urban sprawl. They are instrumental in disaster management, assessing damage from hurricanes, earthquakes, and floods, and enabling emergency responders to coordinate rescue efforts and allocate resources more effectively.

In addition, real-time imagery from EO satellites is being used in smart city initiatives to improve energy efficiency, transportation networks, and public services. For instance, data from these satellites is being utilised to optimise waste management systems and traffic flow, ultimately leading to more sustainable and efficient cities.

The rise of smallsat constellations, combined with the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML), will further increase the value of EO satellite data. These advancements will enable us to process and analyse data more quickly and accurately, providing us with real-time insights that can inform decision-making and drive positive change.

Moreover, satellites equipped with greenhouse gas sensors monitor carbon emissions, helping nations meet their climate goals. This technology offers a powerful tool in our fight against climate change, allowing us to track and reduce our carbon footprint on a global scale.

In conclusion, the role of Earth Observation satellites in our world is expanding rapidly. From environmental conservation to urban development, these satellites are proving to be invaluable tools in addressing some of the most pressing challenges of our time. As we look to the future, it is clear that the value of EO satellite data will only continue to grow.