The Transformative Role of Satellite-Based Earth Observation in Empowering Industries

Highlights

• Introduction
• Potential applications of EO satellites across industries
• Key acquisitions by leading players in the landscape

Earth observation (EO) is the process of gathering information about Earth’s surface, waters and atmosphere via ground-based, airborne and satellite remote sensing platforms. The data acquired is then processed and analyzed to extract different types of information that can be used to monitor and assess the status of both natural and human-made environments.

Earth observation data finds applications across diverse industries, including environmental protection, energy, agriculture, forestry, fisheries, urban planning, transport, tourism, civil protection, sustainable development, and more.

Exploring the role of earth observation empowering various sectors

Over the past few years, satellite-based earth observation has become a pivotal technology benefiting several industries. Its application in the energy and raw material sectors is particularly transformative. By utilizing high-resolution imagery, multi-spectral data, and advanced sensor technologies, EO satellites provide valuable insights that enhance efficiency, sustainability, and safety across this sector. These are instrumental in identifying optimal locations for solar farms. They provide detailed data on solar irradiance, cloud cover, and weather patterns, allowing for precise site selection and energy yield predictions. Additionally, satellites monitor the performance and efficiency of existing solar installations by tracking changes in reflectance and temperature. Also, EO satellites play an important role in managing hydropower resources by monitoring water levels, flow rates, and sedimentation in rivers and reservoirs. This information is highly useful for the efficient operation of dams and the prediction of water availability.

Moreover, EO data assists in identifying potential oil and gas reserves by analyzing geological formations and surface anomalies. Techniques like synthetic aperture radar (SAR) and multispectral imaging detect surface oil seeps, which indicate underlying hydrocarbon deposits. In addition, these satellites provide high-resolution imagery and multispectral data that aid in geological mapping and mineral exploration. By analyzing surface composition and identifying mineral signatures, EO data helps geologists with high potential areas for mineral deposits. Further, they help monitor the environmental impact of mining activities. EO satellites track deforestation, soil erosion, water contamination, and air quality around mining sites. This data ensures compliance with environmental regulations and helps companies implement more sustainable mining practices. Due to these potential applications of EO satellites in the energy and raw materials sector, the segment of the satellite-based earth observation industry is predicted to be fastest growing, manifesting a CAGR of 10.3% from 2021 to 2031.

Nowadays, EO data is widely used to monitor urban sprawl, plan infrastructure, and manage resources. EO satellites offer high-resolution imagery that helps in mapping city landscapes, identifying illegal constructions, and ensuring sustainable urban development. On the other hand, precision agriculture benefits immensely from these satellites. They help farmers monitor crop health, soil conditions, and water usage. This information enables more efficient farming practices, leading to increased yields and reduced environmental impact.

Holistic initiatives taken by top players revolutionizing earth observation technology

In October 2023, NASA, an independent agency of the U.S. federal government responsible for the civil space program, aeronautics research, and space research acquired seven countries to expand commercial earth observation data. Airbus DS Geo, Capella Space, GHGSat, Maxar, PlanetiQ, Spire Global and Umbra were the countries that signed the contract to provide indefinite delivery of earth observation data and services for six months. With this acquisition, NASA aimed to expand its earth observations data with higher resolutions, increased temporal frequency and other novel capabilities, augmenting its Commercial Smallsat Data Acquisition Program which was established in 2017.

In May 2024, GalaxEye, an Indian-based space-tech startup emphasizing earth observation satellites signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Centre (IN-SPACe), an autonomous agency under the Department of Space of the Government of India. By signing this agreement, GalaxyEye is facilitated with the utilization of ISRO’s top-of-the-range laboratories and testing facilities. Also, with this acquisition, GalaxEye envisioned to bring its innovative approach with multi-sensor earth observation satellites, equipped with proprietary “Drishti Sensor”. This modern sensor technology helps with cloud cover which usually inhibits earlier methods of studying planet features. This advanced sensor offers high-resolution, multi-sensor capability and delivers detailed and timely data that is required for mission preparation, border patrols, and disaster management, where timely and accurate information is highly essential.

To sum up, the rise in the demand for bid data technology to generate accurate insights on earth observation data and continuous advancements in earth observation satellite technologies are the major factors expected to boost the growth of the landscape in the forthcoming years. Moreover, the increasing need for high-resolution imaging services for monitoring and verifying applications across various industries is predicted to create lucrative opportunities for the industry.

To gain insights into the satellite-based earth observation industry and identify new markets for expansion, feel free to talk to our esteemed analysts today! They will also help you identify new market segments and growth opportunities.

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