Space communication

This is yet another field in which space technology has historically been leveraged. Signals from telephones, radios and televisions as well as, to an increasing extent, data signals are sent via satellite. Though these connections are made wirelessly, we must acknowledge that underwater cables that run across the world are chiefly responsible for these types of communication. However, space technology plays a key role in communication when remote parts of the world must be reached. It would be otherwise impossible to communicate with these regions due to the costs of building infrastructure on Earth. 

Traditional telecommunications companies have always been active in this field, and, in fact, AT&T.  launched the very first telecommunications satellite, the  Telstar 1. There are a growing number of new companies that are willing to stake a claim in the market and launch their own satellite constellations to bring Internet access to remote regions as well as to aircraft or maritime vessels that would otherwise remain isolated. In this context within the space industry, the reduction in launch costs and satellite-construction costs are also two key factors that pave the way for new companies to enter the market.

The demand for data transmission is predicted to grow with the increase in usage of mobile devices, autonomous vehicles and devices that are connected to the Internet of Things. All signs lead to communication as one of the largest sector within the space industry in coming years.

Satellites will have a fundamental role in connecting ‘not connected’ people

Conference by Antonio Abad, Chief Technical and Operations Officer at HISPASAT, at the XXXI Future Trends Forum about the Commercialization of Space.

Antonio explains the important role of satellites in connecting the non-connected people.