Satellite Bus Market Size
Icons | Lable | Value |
---|---|---|
Study Period | 2017 - 2029 | |
Market Size (2024) | USD 17.85 Billion | |
Market Size (2029) | USD 39.76 Billion | |
Largest Share by Orbit Class | LEO | |
CAGR (2024 - 2029) | 17.37 % | |
Largest Share by Region | North America | |
Market Concentration | High | |
Major Players |
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*Disclaimer: Major Players sorted in alphabetical order. |
Satellite Bus Market Analysis
The Satellite Bus Market size is estimated at USD 17.85 billion in 2024, and is expected to reach USD 39.76 billion by 2029, growing at a CAGR of 17.37% during the forecast period (2024-2029).
17.85 Billion
Market Size in 2024 (USD)
39.76 Billion
Market Size in 2029 (USD)
30.67 %
CAGR (2017-2023)
17.37 %
CAGR (2024-2029)
Largest Market by Satellite Mass
65.83 %
value share, 100-500kg, 2022
Minisatellites with expanded capacity for enterprise data (retail and banking), oil, gas, and mining, and governments in developed countries pose high demand. The demand for minisatellites with a LEO is increasing due to their expanded capacity.
Largest Market by Application
78.69 %
value share, Communication, 2022
Governments, space agencies, defense agencies, private defense contractors, and private space industry players are emphasizing the enhancement of the communication network capabilities for various public and military reconnaissance applications.
Largest Market by Orbit Class
72.49 %
value share, LEO, 2022
LEO satellites are increasingly being adopted in modern communication technologies. These satellites serve an important role in Earth observation applications.
Largest Market by End User
69.05 %
value share, Commercial, 2022
Increasing usage of small satellites for telecommunication services generates the need to deploy advanced communication satellites for commercial purposes thereby the requirement of these satellite buses has become more relevant
Leading Market Player
24 %
market share, Lockheed Martin Corporation, 2022
OHB is the leading player in the global satellite bus market. The company invests in mission-critical technologies across all applications, especially in Earth observation satellites and their components.
Cost-effectiveness, faster deployment times, and advanced capabilities of LEO satellites aids the market growth
- The satellite bus market is driven by the increasing demand for satellite-based services, with applications ranging from communication and navigation to remote sensing and scientific research. The demand for cost-effective solutions, faster deployment times, and advanced capabilities is driving the development of innovative satellite bus solutions for LEO, MEO, and GEO satellites.
- LEO satellites are in demand for applications such as Earth observation, remote sensing, and scientific research. For LEO satellites, various companies offer a range of bus solutions, including the Boeing 502 Phoenix, the Lockheed Martin LM 400, and the Northrop Grumman GeoStar-3. These buses are designed to support a range of LEO applications, such as Earth observation, remote sensing, and scientific research.
- MEO satellites are used for applications such as communication and navigation. The demand for MEO satellites is driven by the need for improved navigation capabilities and advanced imaging technologies. Companies like Airbus Defence and Space, Boeing, and Lockheed Martin offer advanced solutions for communication and navigation missions, including the Airbus Eurostar Neo, the Boeing 702MP, and the Lockheed Martin LM 2100.
- The demand for GEO satellites is driven by the need for high-capacity data transmission, global coverage, and high-quality broadcasting capabilities. For GEO orbit, key players in the market include Boeing, Lockheed Martin, and Maxar Technologies. These companies offer innovative solutions for communication and broadcasting missions, including the Boeing 702, the Lockheed Martin A2100, and the Maxar Technologies 1300-class. These buses are designed to provide long-term, stable service for satellite-based services
The surge in the number of satellites manufactured and launched has positively impacted the market
- The global satellite manufacturing market is a dynamic and rapidly changing industry that plays an important role in modern society. This industry includes companies that design, manufacture, and launch a wide range of satellites, from small cubes to large Earth observation and communication satellites.
- The industry is driven by various factors, including growing demand for satellite services such as communications, navigation, and Earth observation, and increasing accessibility to space for public and private organizations. As a result, the industry has seen significant growth in recent years, with new players entering the market and established companies expanding their capabilities.
- Satellite manufacturing is a complex process with many technologies, including advanced materials, electronics, and software. Companies in this field must have a deep understanding of these technologies and be able to integrate them into sophisticated systems that can withstand the harsh conditions of space. Major satellite manufacturers include Airbus Defense and Space, The Boeing Company, Lockheed Martin, and Thales Alenia Space.
- North America and Europe are more established markets in the industry, while Asia-Pacific is a more lucrative market for growth opportunities. From 2017 to May 2022, around 4300 satellites were manufactured and launched globally. The global satellite manufacturing market is projected to grow and innovate as demand for satellite services grows and space access expands.
Global Satellite Bus Market Trends
Small satellites are poised to generate the demand in the market
- The classification of spacecraft by mass is one of the main metrics for determining the launch vehicle size and cost of launching satellites into orbit. In North America, during 2017-2022, around 45+ large satellites launched were owned by North American organizations. More than 80 medium-sized satellites launched were operated by North American organizations. Around 2900+ small satellites were manufactured and launched in this region.
- Europe has witnessed significant growth in recent years, primarily driven by the increasing demand for different satellite masses. Satellite mass is one of the most critical factors that influence the satellite manufacturing market in Europe. This is because different types of satellites require different masses, influencing the launch vehicle market. For instance, during 2017-2022, a total of 569 satellites were launched in the region. Of these 569 satellites, minisatellites accounted for the largest share, with 451 satellites launched into orbit, followed by 44 nanosatellites, 37 large satellites, 16 medium size satellites, and seven microsatellites.
- Satellite manufacturing has become an increasingly important industry in Asia-Pacific in recent years, driven by the need to meet the growing demand for advanced satellite capabilities. The range of satellite mass that is being manufactured in Asia-Pacific varies significantly, and this has a significant impact on the growth of the market. For instance, during 2017-2022, a total of 370 satellites were launched in the region. Of that, microsatellites accounted for the largest share, with 130 satellites launched into orbit, followed by 75 large satellites, 63 nanosatellites, 60 medium size satellites, and 42 minisatellites.
Investment opportunities in the market are increasing spending on space programs
- In North America, government expenditure for space programs hit a record of approximately 103 billion in 2021. The region is the epicenter of space innovation and research, with the presence of the world's biggest space agency, NASA. In 2022, the US government spent nearly USD 62 billion on its space programs, making it the highest spender on space in the world. For instance, till February 2023, NASA distributed USD 333 million as research grants. In 2022, the US government spent nearly USD 62 billion on its space programs.
- European countries are recognizing the importance of various investments in the space domain and are increasing their spending on space activities and innovation to stay competitive and innovative in the global space industry. On this note, in November 2022, ESA announced that it proposed a 25% boost in space funding over the next three years designed to maintain Europe's lead in Earth observation, expand navigation services and remain a partner in exploration with the United States. The European Space Agency (ESA) is asking its 22 nations to back a budget of EUR 18.5 billion for 2023-2025. Germany, France, and Italy are the major contributors.
- Considering the increase in space-related activities in the Asia-Pacific region, in 2022, according to the draft budget of Japan, the space budget of the country was over USD 1.4 billion, which includes the development of the H3 rocket, Engineering Test Satellite-9, and the nation’s Information Gathering Satellite (IGS) program. Similarly, the proposed budget for India's space programs for FY22 is USD 1.83 billion. In 2022, South Korea's Ministry of Science and ICT announced a space budget of USD 619 million for manufacturing satellites, rockets, and other key space equipment.
OTHER KEY INDUSTRY TRENDS COVERED IN THE REPORT
- The demand for satellite miniaturization is rising across the world
Satellite Bus Industry Overview
The Satellite Bus Market is fairly consolidated, with the top five companies occupying 71%. The major players in this market are Airbus SE, Honeywell International Inc., Lockheed Martin Corporation, Northrop Grumman Corporation and Thales (sorted alphabetically).
Satellite Bus Market Leaders
Airbus SE
Honeywell International Inc.
Lockheed Martin Corporation
Northrop Grumman Corporation
Thales
Other important companies include Ball Corporation, Nano Avionics, NEC, OHB SE, Sierra Nevada Corporation.
*Disclaimer: Major Players sorted in alphabetical order.
Satellite Bus Market News
- October 2020: NanoAvionics expanded its presence in the United Kingdom by beginning operations at its new facility in Basingstoke for satellite assembly, integration, and testing (AIT), as well as sales, technical support, and R&D activities.
- August 2020: SNC introduced two new satellite platforms to its spacecraft offerings, the SN-200M satellite bus, designed for medium Earth orbit (MEO), and SN-1000.
- July 2020: SNC was awarded a contract by the Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) for repurposing its Shooting Star transport vehicle to an Unmanned Orbital Outpost, a scalable and autonomous space.
Free with this Report
We offer a comprehensive set of global and local metrics that illustrate the fundamentals of the satellites industry. Clients can access in-depth market analysis of various satellites and launch vehicles through granular level segmental information supported by a repository of market data, trends, and expert analysis. Data and analysis on satellite launches, satellite mass, application of satellites, spending on space programs, propulsion systems, end users, etc., are available in the form of comprehensive reports as well as excel based data worksheets.
Satellite Bus Market Report - Table of Contents
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY & KEY FINDINGS
REPORT OFFERS
1. INTRODUCTION
1.1. Study Assumptions & Market Definition
1.2. Scope of the Study
1.3. Research Methodology
2. KEY INDUSTRY TRENDS
2.1. Satellite Miniaturization
2.2. Satellite Mass
2.3. Spending On Space Programs
2.4. Regulatory Framework
2.4.1. Global
2.4.2. Australia
2.4.3. Brazil
2.4.4. Canada
2.4.5. China
2.4.6. France
2.4.7. Germany
2.4.8. India
2.4.9. Iran
2.4.10. Japan
2.4.11. New Zealand
2.4.12. Russia
2.4.13. Singapore
2.4.14. South Korea
2.4.15. United Arab Emirates
2.4.16. United Kingdom
2.4.17. United States
2.5. Value Chain & Distribution Channel Analysis
3. MARKET SEGMENTATION (includes market size in Value in USD, Forecasts up to 2029 and analysis of growth prospects)
3.1. Application
3.1.1. Communication
3.1.2. Earth Observation
3.1.3. Navigation
3.1.4. Space Observation
3.1.5. Others
3.2. Satellite Mass
3.2.1. 10-100kg
3.2.2. 100-500kg
3.2.3. 500-1000kg
3.2.4. Below 10 Kg
3.2.5. above 1000kg
3.3. Orbit Class
3.3.1. GEO
3.3.2. LEO
3.3.3. MEO
3.4. End User
3.4.1. Commercial
3.4.2. Military & Government
3.4.3. Other
3.5. Region
3.5.1. Asia-Pacific
3.5.2. Europe
3.5.3. North America
3.5.4. Rest of World
4. COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE
4.1. Key Strategic Moves
4.2. Market Share Analysis
4.3. Company Landscape
4.4. Company Profiles (includes Global Level Overview, Market Level Overview, Core Business Segments, Financials, Headcount, Key Information, Market Rank, Market Share, Products and Services, and Analysis of Recent Developments).
4.4.1. Airbus SE
4.4.2. Ball Corporation
4.4.3. Honeywell International Inc.
4.4.4. Lockheed Martin Corporation
4.4.5. Nano Avionics
4.4.6. NEC
4.4.7. Northrop Grumman Corporation
4.4.8. OHB SE
4.4.9. Sierra Nevada Corporation
4.4.10. Thales
5. KEY STRATEGIC QUESTIONS FOR SATELLITE CEOS
6. APPENDIX
6.1. Global Overview
6.1.1. Overview
6.1.2. Porter's Five Forces Framework
6.1.3. Global Value Chain Analysis
6.1.4. Market Dynamics (DROs)
6.2. Sources & References
6.3. List of Tables & Figures
6.4. Primary Insights
6.5. Data Pack
6.6. Glossary of Terms
List of Tables & Figures
- Figure 1:
- MINIATURE SATELLITES (BELOW 10KG), NUMBER OF LAUNCHES, GLOBAL, 2017 - 2022
- Figure 2:
- SATELLITE MASS (ABOVE 10KG) GLOBALLY, NUMBER OF SATELLITES LAUNCHED, GLOBAL, 2017 - 2022
- Figure 3:
- SPENDING ON SPACE PROGRAMS GLOBALLY, USD, GLOBAL, 2017 - 2022
- Figure 4:
- GLOBAL SATELLITE BUS MARKET, VALUE, USD, 2017 - 2029
- Figure 5:
- VALUE OF SATELLITE BUS MARKET BY APPLICATION, USD, GLOBAL, 2017 - 2029
- Figure 6:
- VALUE SHARE OF SATELLITE BUS MARKET BY APPLICATION, %, GLOBAL, 2017 VS 2023 VS 2029
- Figure 7:
- VALUE OF COMMUNICATION MARKET, USD, GLOBAL, 2017 - 2029
- Figure 8:
- VALUE OF EARTH OBSERVATION MARKET, USD, GLOBAL, 2017 - 2029
- Figure 9:
- VALUE OF NAVIGATION MARKET, USD, GLOBAL, 2017 - 2029
- Figure 10:
- VALUE OF SPACE OBSERVATION MARKET, USD, GLOBAL, 2017 - 2029
- Figure 11:
- VALUE OF OTHERS MARKET, USD, GLOBAL, 2017 - 2029
- Figure 12:
- VALUE OF SATELLITE BUS MARKET BY SATELLITE MASS, USD, GLOBAL, 2017 - 2029
- Figure 13:
- VALUE SHARE OF SATELLITE BUS MARKET BY SATELLITE MASS, %, GLOBAL, 2017 VS 2023 VS 2029
- Figure 14:
- VALUE OF 10-100KG MARKET, USD, GLOBAL, 2017 - 2029
- Figure 15:
- VALUE OF 100-500KG MARKET, USD, GLOBAL, 2017 - 2029
- Figure 16:
- VALUE OF 500-1000KG MARKET, USD, GLOBAL, 2017 - 2029
- Figure 17:
- VALUE OF BELOW 10 KG MARKET, USD, GLOBAL, 2017 - 2029
- Figure 18:
- VALUE OF ABOVE 1000KG MARKET, USD, GLOBAL, 2017 - 2029
- Figure 19:
- VALUE OF SATELLITE BUS MARKET BY ORBIT CLASS, USD, GLOBAL, 2017 - 2029
- Figure 20:
- VALUE SHARE OF SATELLITE BUS MARKET BY ORBIT CLASS, %, GLOBAL, 2017 VS 2023 VS 2029
- Figure 21:
- VALUE OF GEO MARKET, USD, GLOBAL, 2017 - 2029
- Figure 22:
- VALUE OF LEO MARKET, USD, GLOBAL, 2017 - 2029
- Figure 23:
- VALUE OF MEO MARKET, USD, GLOBAL, 2017 - 2029
- Figure 24:
- VALUE OF SATELLITE BUS MARKET BY END USER, USD, GLOBAL, 2017 - 2029
- Figure 25:
- VALUE SHARE OF SATELLITE BUS MARKET BY END USER, %, GLOBAL, 2017 VS 2023 VS 2029
- Figure 26:
- VALUE OF COMMERCIAL MARKET, USD, GLOBAL, 2017 - 2029
- Figure 27:
- VALUE OF MILITARY & GOVERNMENT MARKET, USD, GLOBAL, 2017 - 2029
- Figure 28:
- VALUE OF OTHER MARKET, USD, GLOBAL, 2017 - 2029
- Figure 29:
- VALUE OF SATELLITE BUS MARKET BY REGION, USD, GLOBAL, 2017 - 2029
- Figure 30:
- VALUE SHARE OF SATELLITE BUS MARKET BY REGION, %, GLOBAL, 2017 VS 2023 VS 2029
- Figure 31:
- VALUE OF SATELLITE BUS MARKET, USD, ASIA-PACIFIC, 2017 - 2029
- Figure 32:
- VALUE SHARE OF SATELLITE BUS MARKET BY APPLICATION, %, ASIA-PACIFIC, 2017 - 2029
- Figure 33:
- VALUE OF SATELLITE BUS MARKET, USD, EUROPE, 2017 - 2029
- Figure 34:
- VALUE SHARE OF SATELLITE BUS MARKET BY APPLICATION, %, EUROPE, 2017 - 2029
- Figure 35:
- VALUE OF SATELLITE BUS MARKET, USD, NORTH AMERICA, 2017 - 2029
- Figure 36:
- VALUE SHARE OF SATELLITE BUS MARKET BY APPLICATION, %, NORTH AMERICA, 2017 - 2029
- Figure 37:
- VALUE OF SATELLITE BUS MARKET, USD, REST OF WORLD, 2017 - 2029
- Figure 38:
- VALUE SHARE OF SATELLITE BUS MARKET BY APPLICATION, %, REST OF WORLD, 2017 - 2029
- Figure 39:
- NUMBER OF STRATEGIC MOVES OF MOST ACTIVE COMPANIES, GLOBAL SATELLITE BUS MARKET, ALL, 2017 - 2029
- Figure 40:
- TOTAL NUMBER OF STRATEGIC MOVES OF COMPANIES, GLOBAL SATELLITE BUS MARKET, ALL, 2017 - 2029
- Figure 41:
- MARKET SHARE OF GLOBAL SATELLITE BUS MARKET, %, ALL, 2022
Satellite Bus Industry Segmentation
Communication, Earth Observation, Navigation, Space Observation, Others are covered as segments by Application. 10-100kg, 100-500kg, 500-1000kg, Below 10 Kg, above 1000kg are covered as segments by Satellite Mass. GEO, LEO, MEO are covered as segments by Orbit Class. Commercial, Military & Government are covered as segments by End User. Asia-Pacific, Europe, North America are covered as segments by Region.
- The satellite bus market is driven by the increasing demand for satellite-based services, with applications ranging from communication and navigation to remote sensing and scientific research. The demand for cost-effective solutions, faster deployment times, and advanced capabilities is driving the development of innovative satellite bus solutions for LEO, MEO, and GEO satellites.
- LEO satellites are in demand for applications such as Earth observation, remote sensing, and scientific research. For LEO satellites, various companies offer a range of bus solutions, including the Boeing 502 Phoenix, the Lockheed Martin LM 400, and the Northrop Grumman GeoStar-3. These buses are designed to support a range of LEO applications, such as Earth observation, remote sensing, and scientific research.
- MEO satellites are used for applications such as communication and navigation. The demand for MEO satellites is driven by the need for improved navigation capabilities and advanced imaging technologies. Companies like Airbus Defence and Space, Boeing, and Lockheed Martin offer advanced solutions for communication and navigation missions, including the Airbus Eurostar Neo, the Boeing 702MP, and the Lockheed Martin LM 2100.
- The demand for GEO satellites is driven by the need for high-capacity data transmission, global coverage, and high-quality broadcasting capabilities. For GEO orbit, key players in the market include Boeing, Lockheed Martin, and Maxar Technologies. These companies offer innovative solutions for communication and broadcasting missions, including the Boeing 702, the Lockheed Martin A2100, and the Maxar Technologies 1300-class. These buses are designed to provide long-term, stable service for satellite-based services
Application | |
Communication | |
Earth Observation | |
Navigation | |
Space Observation | |
Others |
Satellite Mass | |
10-100kg | |
100-500kg | |
500-1000kg | |
Below 10 Kg | |
above 1000kg |
Orbit Class | |
GEO | |
LEO | |
MEO |
End User | |
Commercial | |
Military & Government | |
Other |
Region | |
Asia-Pacific | |
Europe | |
North America | |
Rest of World |
Market Definition
- Application - Various applications or purposes of the satellites are classified into communication, earth observation, space observation, navigation, and others. The purposes listed are those self-reported by the satellite’s operator.
- End User - The primary users or end users of the satellite is described as civil (academic, amateur), commercial, government (meteorological, scientific, etc.), military. Satellites can be multi-use, for both commercial and military applications.
- Launch Vehicle MTOW - The launch vehicle MTOW (maximum take-off weight) means the maximum weight of the launch vehicle during take-off, including the weight of payload, equipment and fuel.
- Orbit Class - The satellite orbits are divided into three broad classes namely GEO, LEO, and MEO. Satellites in elliptical orbits have apogees and perigees that differ significantly from each other and categorized satellite orbits with eccentricity 0.14 and higher as elliptical.
- Propulsion tech - Under this segment, different types of satellite propulsion systems have been classified as electric, liquid-fuel and gas-based propulsion systems.
- Satellite Mass - Under this segment, different types of satellite propulsion systems have been classified as electric, liquid-fuel and gas-based propulsion systems.
- Satellite Subsystem - All the components and subsystems which includes propellants, buses, solar panels, other hardware of satellites are included under this segment.
Keyword | Definition |
---|---|
Attitude Control | The orientation of the satellite relative to the Earth and the sun. |
INTELSAT | The International Telecommunications Satellite Organization operates a network of satellites for international transmission. |
Geostationary Earth Orbit (GEO) | Geostationary satellites in Earth orbit 35,786 km (22,282 mi) above the equator in the same direction and at the same speed as the earth rotates on its axis, making them appear fixed in the sky. |
Low Earth Orbit (LEO) | Low Earth Orbit satellites orbit from 160-2000km above the earth, take approximately 1.5 hours for a full orbit and only cover a portion of the earth’s surface. |
Medium Earth Orbit (MEO) | MEO satellites are located above LEO and below GEO satellites and typically travel in an elliptical orbit over the North and South Pole or in an equatorial orbit. |
Very Small Aperture Terminal (VSAT) | Very Small Aperture Terminal is an antenna that is typically less than 3 meters in diameter |
CubeSat | CubeSat is a class of miniature satellites based on a form factor consisting of 10 cm cubes. CubeSats weigh no more than 2 kg per unit and typically use commercially available components for their construction and electronics. |
Small Satellite Launch Vehicles (SSLVs) | Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV) is a three-stage Launch Vehicle configured with three Solid Propulsion Stages and a liquid propulsion-based Velocity Trimming Module (VTM) as a terminal stage |
Space Mining | Asteroid mining is the hypothesis of extracting material from asteroids and other asteroids, including near-Earth objects. |
Nano Satellites | Nanosatellites are loosely defined as any satellite weighing less than 10 kilograms. |
Automatic Identification System (AIS) | Automatic identification system (AIS) is an automatic tracking system used to identify and locate ships by exchanging electronic data with other nearby ships, AIS base stations, and satellites. Satellite AIS (S-AIS) is the term used to describe when a satellite is used to detect AIS signatures. |
Reusable launch vehicles (RLVs) | Reusable launch vehicle (RLV) means a launch vehicle that is designed to return to Earth substantially intact and therefore may be launched more than one time or that contains vehicle stages that may be recovered by a launch operator for future use in the operation of a substantially similar launch vehicle. |
Apogee | The point in an elliptical satellite orbit which is farthest from the surface of the earth. Geosynchronous satellites which maintain circular orbits around the earth are first launched into highly elliptical orbits with apogees of 22,237 miles. |
Research Methodology
Mordor Intelligence follows a four-step methodology in all our reports.
- Step-1: Identify Key Variables: In order to build a robust forecasting methodology, the variables and factors identified in Step-1 are tested against available historical market numbers. Through an iterative process, the variables required for market forecast are set and the model is built on the basis of these variables.
- Step-2: Build a Market Model: Market-size estimations for the historical and forecast years have been provided in revenue and volume terms. For sales conversion to volume, the average selling price (ASP) is kept constant throughout the forecast period for each country, and inflation is not a part of the pricing.
- Step-3: Validate and Finalize: In this important step, all market numbers, variables and analyst calls are validated through an extensive network of primary research experts from the market studied. The respondents are selected across levels and functions to generate a holistic picture of the market studied.
- Step-4: Research Outputs: Syndicated Reports, Custom Consulting Assignments, Databases & Subscription Platforms.