Remote Sensing Satellite Market Share, Size, Trends, Forecast, 2023–2030

According to Fortune Business Insights™, the global remote sensing satellite market size was valued at USD 9.67 billion in 2022 and is projected to grow from USD 14.11 billion in 2023 to USD 29.19 billion by 2030, exhibiting a CAGR of 10.9% during the forecast period. This significant growth is driven by increased demand across civil, military, and government sectors for applications ranging from agriculture to disaster management.

What is Remote Sensing?

Remote sensing involves the collection of data from a distance using satellites. These satellites play a critical role in enhancing situational awareness, especially in scenarios with limited ground intelligence. Their applications span across industries, including weather forecasting, climate monitoring, agriculture, defense, and disaster response, making them indispensable for modern decision-making.

Key Market Players

Prominent companies contributing to the remote sensing satellite industry include:

• Maxar Technologies (U.S.)

• Airbus (France)

• Planet Labs PBC (U.S.)

• Umbra Lab Inc. (U.S.)

• Orbital Sidekick (U.S.)

• Pixxel (India)

• Satellite Imaging Corporation (U.S.)

• Lockheed Martin Corporation (U.S.)

• Northrop Grumman Corporation (U.S.)

• Boeing (U.S.)

• Thales Group (France)

• Indian Space Research Organization (India)

These key players are heavily involved in satellite manufacturing, data analytics, and Earth observation programs across the globe.

Source:

https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/remote-sensing-satellite-market-107838

Segments

By Orbit AnalysisThe remote sensing satellite market, based on orbit, is categorized into LEO (Low Earth Orbit), MEO (Medium Earth Orbit), GEO (Geostationary Earth Orbit), and others. Among these, the LEO segment dominated the market and is projected to grow at the highest rate over the forecast period. LEO satellites are positioned closer to the Earth, making them more accessible for maintenance and crew interactions. Their proximity to ground stations also results in reduced communication latency, enhancing real-time data transfer capabilities. Additionally, due to their orbiting trajectory, LEO satellites can provide near-complete Earth surface coverage, making them ideal for diverse monitoring and observation applications.

By Application AnalysisIn terms of application, the market is segmented into disaster management, weather forecasting, oceanography, ecology, and others. The disaster management segment is anticipated to hold the largest share of the market and register the fastest CAGR during the forecast period. This growth is driven by the increasing utilization of remote sensing satellites for humanitarian operations. These satellites are capable of capturing imagery that helps identify disaster-affected regions and victims, facilitating faster rescue operations. For instance, during Cyclone Biparjoy in June 2023, Indian satellites INSAT-3D and INSAT-3DR enabled accurate forecasting, helping authorities evacuate over 100,000 people safely in advance.

By End User AnalysisThe market, based on end user, is classified into civil, military, and government sectors. Among these, the military segment is expected to lead the market throughout the forecast period. The growing geopolitical tensions and territorial disputes are compelling nations to invest in advanced satellite-based defense infrastructure. Remote sensing satellites play a crucial role in enhancing Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) operations. They provide critical spatial data like terrain mapping, altitude information, and navigational support. A notable development occurred in August 2022 when Russia launched the “Khayyam” satellite for Iran from the Baikonur Cosmodrome using a Soyuz rocket, highlighting the strategic role of satellite technology in modern military capabilities.

By Payload AnalysisBased on payload, the market is segmented into less than 500 kg, 500 kg to 1,000 kg, and above 1,000 kg. The segment comprising satellites with payloads above 1,000 kg held the largest market share and is expected to maintain its lead over the forecast period. This is attributed to the rising demand for heavy military satellites designed to support various functions for land, naval, and air forces. These satellites are engineered to deliver high-resolution imagery, extended operational lifespans, and robust ISR support, making them vital assets for defense agencies around the world.

Market Dynamics

Growth Drivers

1. Modernization of Agricultural MonitoringThe adoption of remote sensing in agriculture has revolutionized crop management practices. Satellite data enables farmers to monitor crop health, detect irrigation issues, and assess field variability through LiDAR, optical, and thermal sensors. Precision farming techniques, supported by satellites, are increasing food production efficiency and sustainability.

2. Increasing Military ApplicationsWith rising geopolitical tensions and defense modernization, military agencies are increasingly deploying satellites for enhanced intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities. Satellite imaging allows militaries to analyze terrain, monitor borders, and conduct secure operations in real-time.

Restraints

High Satellite Density in LEO May Hamper Market ExpansionThe overpopulation of satellites in Low Earth Orbit (LEO) is raising concerns about space debris. As older, non-operational satellites remain in orbit, the risk of collisions and formation of space junk increases, contributing to the Kessler Syndrome—a scenario that could make future space missions highly challenging.

Notable Market Trends

Adoption of AI & ML in Remote Sensing Satellites

The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) in satellite systems is transforming the market. AI-enabled satellites can process data onboard, filtering and sending only valuable information to ground stations. This approach significantly reduces transmission latency and supports applications such as:

• Climate prediction

• Crop yield forecasting

• Wildlife tracking

• Geological mapping

Regional Insights

North America

• Market Value (2022): USD 3.22 billion

• Dominated by defense-related satellite deployments.

• Key players: Maxar Technologies, Planet Labs

• Strong focus on ISR capabilities and commercial Earth observation services.

Asia Pacific

• Expected to register the highest growth rate by 2030.

• Growing adoption in agriculture, energy, mining, and disaster management in countries like India, China, and South Korea.

• Notable innovations by private startups such as Pixxel and Azista BST Aerospace.

Europe

• Witnessing significant investments in advanced satellite technologies.

• Presence of major players like Airbus and ICEYE.

• The market is supported by increased R&D funding and government initiatives.

Middle East & Africa

• Moderate growth due to new national space initiatives.

• Countries like UAE, Israel, and South Africa are investing in satellite technologies.

• Example: In 2023, Bayanat and Yahsat collaborated to enhance UAE’s Earth Observation capabilities.

Latin America

• Growth driven by applications in ecology, weather forecasting, and defense.

• Rising participation from Brazil and Argentina in Earth observation programs.

Competitive Landscape

Partnerships & Collaboration Fuel Innovation

The competitive landscape is shaped by strategic partnerships and collaborative satellite missions. Key alliances focus on:

• Data-sharing agreements

• Co-development of synthetic aperture radar (SAR) capabilities

• Integration of AI for image optimization

Example: Umbra Lab Inc. partnered with Ursa Major Technologies Inc. to improve SAR imagery in poor visibility conditions.

Strategic Developments

• January 2023 – Azista BST Aerospace (India) launched its first remote sensing satellite, AFR First Runner, from California.

• November 2022 – Exobotics (UK) secured a contract to develop a high-precision Earth observation satellite to explore mineral-rich regions using advanced imaging technology.