GITNUX MARKETDATA REPORT 2024

Small Satellite Industry Statistics

The small satellite industry is experiencing rapid growth with increasing numbers of launches and expanding use in various sectors such as telecommunications and earth observation.

Highlights: Small Satellite Industry Statistics

  • The small satellite market is estimated to register a CAGR of over 17% during the forecast period (2021-2026).
  • North America is expected to continue its dominance in the small satellite market in the future.
  • The global small satellites market size was valued at USD 3.63 billion in 2019.
  • The small satellites market is projected to reach USD 7.5 billion by 2022.
  • As of 2020, most of the small satellites, also known as smallsats, were launched by the United States.
  • In 2019, Planet Labs had the most small satellite launches with 107 satellites launched.
  • The SmallSat market involving payloads under 500 Kg is expected to surpass USD 3 billion by 2026.
  • The mini segment of small satellites accounted for the largest market share of 41.6% in 2019.
  • The scientific research & exploration end-use segment led the market and accounted for more than 40% share of the global revenue in 2019.
  • In the period 2020–2025, more than 1,250 small satellites are expected to be launched, as reported by Euroconsult.
  • Out of the total number of satellites launched in 2020, around 75% were small satellites.
  • The number of small satellites launched in 2019, which was 385, significantly increased to 1,283 in 2020.
  • PSLV of India has launched the maximum number of small satellites till now, which is more than 250.
  • Among the applications of small satellites, Earth observation and Communication accounted for nearly 74% of the market in 2021.
  • There are over 500 players in the small satellite industry, including manufacturers, launch service providers, and operators.
  • In 2020, small satellite operators ordered 1,080 satellites, a 16% increase compared to 2019.
  • CubeSats, a type of miniaturized satellite, made up over 55% of smallsats launched in 2020.
  • Global expenditure on small satellite manufacturing and launch services was USD 22 billion over the period of 2010-2019.

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The Latest Small Satellite Industry Statistics Explained

The small satellite market is estimated to register a CAGR of over 17% during the forecast period (2021-2026).

This statistic indicates that the small satellite market is expected to experience significant growth over the forecast period from 2021 to 2026, with a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) exceeding 17%. A CAGR of over 17% suggests a rapid and consistent increase in the market size and demand for small satellites during this time frame. This growth rate indicates a strong trend towards increased adoption and deployment of small satellites for various applications, such as communication, Earth observation, and scientific research. The forecast points towards a promising outlook for the small satellite industry, with substantial opportunities for market expansion and innovation in the coming years.

North America is expected to continue its dominance in the small satellite market in the future.

The statistic indicates that North America is anticipated to maintain its leading position in the small satellite market moving forward. This suggests that the region is projected to have a strong presence and influence in terms of producing, launching, and utilizing small satellites compared to other regions globally. Factors such as technological advancements, investments in research and development, established infrastructure, and a strong ecosystem for space technology innovation likely contribute to this expected dominance. Consequently, North American companies, organizations, and governments are poised to play a significant role in shaping the future landscape of the small satellite industry due to their continued leadership in this market segment.

The global small satellites market size was valued at USD 3.63 billion in 2019.

The statistic “The global small satellites market size was valued at USD 3.63 billion in 2019” indicates that the total revenue generated by the global small satellites industry in that year amounted to USD 3.63 billion. This figure represents the aggregate value of all transactions within the small satellites market, including sales of small satellite products and services. The statistic provides a snapshot of the economic activity in the small satellites sector for the specified year, serving as a key indicator of the industry’s size and financial performance. This information is essential for stakeholders, investors, and policymakers to understand the market’s significance and track its growth over time.

The small satellites market is projected to reach USD 7.5 billion by 2022.

This statistic refers to the projected value of the small satellites market by the year 2022, estimated to reach USD 7.5 billion. This projection indicates the expected total revenue generated by the small satellites industry, including the manufacturing, launch, and operation of small satellites. The growth in this market is likely driven by the increasing demand for cost-effective and efficient satellite technology for various applications such as communication, Earth observation, and scientific research. As advancements in technology continue to make small satellites more accessible and functional, it is expected that the market will experience significant growth and reach the projected value by 2022.

As of 2020, most of the small satellites, also known as smallsats, were launched by the United States.

The statistic that as of 2020, most small satellites, or smallsats, were launched by the United States indicates that the US was the leading country in terms of launching these smaller spacecraft into orbit. Small satellites are becoming increasingly popular due to their lower cost and faster development timeline compared to traditional large satellites. The fact that the US launched the majority of smallsats suggests its strong presence in the space industry and its investment in innovative space technologies. This statistic highlights the US’s significant contribution to the growing use of small satellites for various purposes such as Earth observation, communication, and scientific research.

In 2019, Planet Labs had the most small satellite launches with 107 satellites launched.

The statistic reveals that in 2019, Planet Labs held the record for the most small satellite launches, launching a total of 107 satellites. This indicates that Planet Labs was a dominant player in the small satellite industry during that year, showcasing their capability and commitment to expanding their satellite network. The significant number of satellites launched by Planet Labs suggests a strong emphasis on innovation, technology, and potentially a high level of investment in satellite development and deployment. This statistic highlights Planet Labs’ leadership in the small satellite sector and underscores their contribution to advancing space technology and satellite-based applications.

The SmallSat market involving payloads under 500 Kg is expected to surpass USD 3 billion by 2026.

The statistic indicates that the SmallSat market, comprised of satellites with payloads weighing under 500 Kg, is projected to exceed a value of USD 3 billion by the year 2026. This suggests a growing demand and increasing investment in SmallSats for various applications such as Earth observation, communication, and scientific research. The estimate points towards a substantial market opportunity and illustrates the potential growth and significance of SmallSat technology in the coming years, driven by advancements in miniaturization, cost-effectiveness, and accessibility of space-based assets.

The mini segment of small satellites accounted for the largest market share of 41.6% in 2019.

The statistic indicates that in 2019, the mini segment of small satellites held the largest portion of the overall market, accounting for 41.6% of the total market share. This suggests that mini satellites, which are smaller and typically less expensive to build and launch compared to larger satellites, were in high demand and saw significant growth in terms of adoption and deployment. The popularity of mini satellites could be attributed to their cost-effectiveness, versatility, and ability to meet various needs across different industries, such as communications, earth observation, and scientific research. This trend highlights the increasing importance and prominence of mini satellites within the satellite industry.

The scientific research & exploration end-use segment led the market and accounted for more than 40% share of the global revenue in 2019.

The statistic indicates that the scientific research & exploration end-use segment was the largest contributor to the market and generated over 40% of the total global revenue in 2019. This suggests that organizations, institutions, and industries involved in scientific research and exploration activities played a significant role in driving the market’s growth and overall performance during that period. The prominence of this particular end-use segment underscores its importance and influence within the market landscape, making it a key sector for stakeholders to monitor and potentially invest in for future opportunities and advancements.

In the period 2020–2025, more than 1,250 small satellites are expected to be launched, as reported by Euroconsult.

The statistic reported by Euroconsult states that between the years 2020 and 2025, it is anticipated that over 1,250 small satellites will be launched. This prediction highlights the growing trend of utilizing small satellites for various purposes such as Earth observation, communication, and scientific research. The significant increase in the number of small satellites being launched is indicative of the expanding accessibility and affordability of space technology, as well as the diverse applications and benefits that these satellites offer. The projection of launching more than 1,250 small satellites within this time frame underscores the rapid growth and evolution of the satellite industry, with potential implications for the space sector and various industries that rely on satellite technology.

Out of the total number of satellites launched in 2020, around 75% were small satellites.

The statistic “Out of the total number of satellites launched in 2020, around 75% were small satellites” indicates that the majority of satellites launched in 2020 were categorized as small satellites. This suggests a growing trend in the miniaturization and increased accessibility of satellite technology, likely driven by advancements in engineering and a decrease in costs associated with satellite development and launch. The prevalence of small satellites could potentially represent a shift in the space industry towards more agile and cost-effective satellite solutions, enabling a wider range of organizations and countries to participate in space activities and benefit from satellite data and services.

The number of small satellites launched in 2019, which was 385, significantly increased to 1,283 in 2020.

The number of small satellites launched in 2019 saw a substantial increase in 2020, jumping from 385 to 1,283. This indicates a significant rise in the deployment of small satellites within a year. Such an escalation may be attributed to various factors, including advancements in satellite technology, increasing demand for satellite services, lower costs associated with manufacturing and launching small satellites, and the emergence of new players in the space industry. The notable spike in small satellite launches from 2019 to 2020 highlights the rapid growth and expansion of the satellite industry and its significance in various sectors such as communication, earth observation, and scientific research.

PSLV of India has launched the maximum number of small satellites till now, which is more than 250.

The statistic that the PSLV of India has launched the maximum number of small satellites, exceeding 250, is indicative of India’s strong presence in the small satellite launch market. The PSLV, or Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle, has been a reliable and cost-effective option for launching small satellites for various purposes such as Earth observation, scientific research, and communication. This achievement highlights India’s growing capabilities in the space industry and its ability to cater to the increasing demand for small satellite launches globally. With its track record of successful launches and competitive pricing, the PSLV has established itself as a preferred choice for organizations seeking to deploy small satellites into orbit.

Among the applications of small satellites, Earth observation and Communication accounted for nearly 74% of the market in 2021.

This statistic indicates that in 2021, nearly 74% of the small satellite market was dominated by applications related to Earth observation and Communication. This signifies that a significant majority of small satellite missions were focused on tasks such as monitoring the Earth’s surface, atmosphere, and climate or facilitating communication services. The popularity of these applications likely stems from the diverse range of benefits they offer, including real-time data collection, environmental monitoring, disaster management, and improved connectivity in remote regions. The prevalence of Earth observation and Communication missions underscores the importance and utility of small satellites in addressing various global challenges and demands.

There are over 500 players in the small satellite industry, including manufacturers, launch service providers, and operators.

This statistic indicates that the small satellite industry is a dynamic and thriving sector with a wide range of players involved in different aspects of the industry. The term “players” encompasses various stakeholders such as manufacturers who produce small satellites, launch service providers who facilitate the deployment of these satellites into orbit, and operators who manage and utilize these satellites for various purposes. The fact that there are over 500 players in this industry suggests a high level of competition, innovation, and diversity within the sector, which is indicative of the growing importance and potential of small satellites in various applications such as communication, Earth observation, and scientific research.

In 2020, small satellite operators ordered 1,080 satellites, a 16% increase compared to 2019.

In 2020, small satellite operators reported ordering 1,080 new satellites, indicating a notable 16% rise when compared to the quantities ordered in 2019. This statistic suggests a continued trend of growth and investment within the small satellite industry, highlighting the increasing importance and demand for small satellites in various applications such as Earth observation, communication, technology demonstration, and scientific research. This increase in satellite orders may reflect advancements in technology and reductions in satellite production costs, as well as the expanding opportunities offered by the rapidly-growing space industry.

CubeSats, a type of miniaturized satellite, made up over 55% of smallsats launched in 2020.

The statistic highlights the increasing popularity and significance of CubeSats in the field of small satellite technology in 2020. CubeSats are a type of miniaturized satellite that are typically constructed using standardized dimensions and components, making them more cost-effective and easier to deploy compared to traditional satellites. With over 55% of smallsats launched in 2020 being CubeSats, this data indicates a growing trend towards the use of these small satellites for various scientific, commercial, and educational purposes. The prevalence of CubeSats in the small satellite market suggests that they are playing a crucial role in advancing space exploration and research initiatives due to their accessibility, versatility, and affordability.

Global expenditure on small satellite manufacturing and launch services was USD 22 billion over the period of 2010-2019.

The statistic indicates that the total amount of money spent globally on manufacturing and launching small satellites during the timeframe of 2010-2019 amounted to USD 22 billion. This significant expenditure reflects the growing interest and investment in small satellite technology for various purposes such as communication, Earth observation, and scientific research. The data suggests a strong market demand for small satellites over the past decade, driven by advancements in technology, increasing access to space, and a reduction in satellite launch costs. The substantial investment in small satellite manufacturing and launch services underscores the expanding role of these satellites in modern aerospace and telecommunications industries.

References

0. – https://www.www.marketsandmarkets.com

1. – https://www.www.grandviewresearch.com

2. – https://www.www.euroconsult-ec.com

3. – https://www.www.statista.com

4. – https://www.www.orbitaltransports.com

5. – https://www.spacenews.com

6. – https://www.astroscale.com

7. – https://www.www.satellitetoday.com

8. – https://www.www.globenewswire.com

9. – https://www.www.mordorintelligence.com

10. – https://www.www.nsr.com

11. – https://www.www.financialexpress.com

12. – https://www.www.aerospace-technology.com

How we write our statistic reports:

We have not conducted any studies ourselves. Our article provides a summary of all the statistics and studies available at the time of writing. We are solely presenting a summary, not expressing our own opinion. We have collected all statistics within our internal database. In some cases, we use Artificial Intelligence for formulating the statistics. The articles are updated regularly.

See our Editorial Process.

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