Session
Technical Session II: Launch
Abstract
Since 2008, SpaceWorks has actively monitored global nano/microsatellite activities, and annually publishes a summary update as a free service to the small satellite development and launch communities. SpaceWorks’ 2016 projection of the 1-50 kg satellite market forecasts over 35% growth in 2016 compared to our 2014 projection due to the combination of a growing backlog due to limited launch opportunities in 2015 and continued interest from the commercial sector. This paper presents detailed observations and projections for the nano/microsatellite market based on over 780 satellites with masses between 1 and 50 kilograms in development over the next three years (2016 to 2018). The data source for this assessment is a subset of the SpaceWorks Satellite Launch Demand Database (LDDB), an extensive collection of all known historical missions, announced future satellite projects, and estimated future commercial missions. Analysis of development trends by sector and purpose show continued development by the civil sector for science or technology demonstration and strong growth from commercial operators primarily for earth observation. Launches to date have utilized existing large launch providers and taken secondary payload slots minimizing launch vehicle costs. Growing numbers of companies are attempting to develop dedicated small satellite launch vehicles and are projecting to charge a premium for the added benefits they will offer small satellites. Due to the increasing complexity in the launch market the capability to model addressability in a comprehensive manner has been developed.
SpaceWorks' 2016 Nano/Microsatellite Market Forcast
Since 2008, SpaceWorks has actively monitored global nano/microsatellite activities, and annually publishes a summary update as a free service to the small satellite development and launch communities. SpaceWorks’ 2016 projection of the 1-50 kg satellite market forecasts over 35% growth in 2016 compared to our 2014 projection due to the combination of a growing backlog due to limited launch opportunities in 2015 and continued interest from the commercial sector. This paper presents detailed observations and projections for the nano/microsatellite market based on over 780 satellites with masses between 1 and 50 kilograms in development over the next three years (2016 to 2018). The data source for this assessment is a subset of the SpaceWorks Satellite Launch Demand Database (LDDB), an extensive collection of all known historical missions, announced future satellite projects, and estimated future commercial missions. Analysis of development trends by sector and purpose show continued development by the civil sector for science or technology demonstration and strong growth from commercial operators primarily for earth observation. Launches to date have utilized existing large launch providers and taken secondary payload slots minimizing launch vehicle costs. Growing numbers of companies are attempting to develop dedicated small satellite launch vehicles and are projecting to charge a premium for the added benefits they will offer small satellites. Due to the increasing complexity in the launch market the capability to model addressability in a comprehensive manner has been developed.
