- The number of low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites is projected to increase from 7,473 in 2023 to approximately 42,600 by 2032.
- This growth is driven by increased participation from China and Europe in the LEO satellite sector.
What happened: Significant expansion in LEO satellite deployments
According to a recent report by ABI Research, the operational fleet of low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites is expected to grow substantially over the next decade. The total number of LEO satellites is projected to rise from 7,473 in 2023 to about 42,600 by 2032. This expansion is largely attributed to heightened involvement from Chinese and European entities in the LEO satellite industry.
The report highlights significant growth opportunities in both national and commercial sectors, particularly in regions such as Asia-Pacific, Southeast Asia, and Africa. Rachel Kong, an analyst at ABI Research, emphasised that advancements in real-time data processing and analysis, along with increased competition in value-added services like artificial intelligence (AI) and edge processing, are expected to drive substantial growth in the LEO satellite market in the coming decade.
Key players in the AI and edge processing domains mentioned in the report include AWS, Spire Global, Telesat Lightspeed, D-Orbit, Anduril, and Ubotica. Chinese operators such as Spacesail, the China Satellite Network Group, and Shanghai Landscape Technology are also contributing to the sector’s expansion.
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Why it is important
The anticipated surge in LEO satellite deployments signifies a transformative period for global satellite communications. The increase to approximately 42,600 satellites by 2032 reflects the escalating demand for enhanced connectivity and data services worldwide. This trend is particularly notable in regions such as Asia-Pacific, Southeast Asia, and Africa, where improved satellite infrastructure can address existing communication gaps.
The involvement of major technology companies like AWS, Spire Global, and Telesat Lightspeed, alongside Chinese operators such as Spacesail and the China Satellite Network Group, underscores the competitive and collaborative dynamics shaping the LEO satellite industry. Advancements in AI and edge processing are poised to further enhance the capabilities and applications of these satellite networks.
As the number of LEO satellites increases, considerations regarding space traffic management and orbital debris mitigation become increasingly important. The industry will need to address these challenges to ensure the sustainable growth of satellite deployments and the long-term viability of space operations.
