Space Is Everywhere: How Satellite Data Powers Industries Beyond the Stars (Part 2)

In the first part of this series, I argued that space should be viewed not as a siloed sector, but as a horizontal enabler, unlocking innovation across industries we interact with every day.

In this second part, as well as expanding on the economic argument for investment in space, I explore three more industries that are harnessing satellite data and imagery, namely: transportation and logistics, urban planning and infrastructure, and disaster response and management. 

Why Invest in Space? 

Once the domain of national space agencies and experimental startups, space has evolved into a major commercial sector that serious investors can no longer overlook. Today, the global commercial space industry is valued at $600bn, with projections that it could triple to $1.8trn by 2035. That scale rivals fintech and renewables, underscoring the need for investors to treat space as a core part of their portfolios.

Despite this, many still see ‘space’ as rockets and exploring distant planets. However, the truth is that space is much closer to home. As this series is exploring, the primary users of space-derived data are increasingly no longer governments or defence contractors, but traditional industries: insurance, for example, as well as agriculture, energy, infrastructure, and logistics. This is because satellites and satellite data have become essential to the function of our modern economy. Space is more about infrastructure and that exploration. 

The sector is primed for investment. Though early-stage space ventures still carry risk, and this is why investors (particularly institutional investors) has typically stayed away, the sector has matured. There are now many space businesses with proven business models and strong customer bases and pipelines. 

As Felix von Schubert, executive chairman and CIO of NewSpace Capital recently explained: 

“Space will increasingly become a requirement for any strong diversified portfolio. This is not only because of the size of the market, and the future size of the market, but because of its relevance to other key sectors. Space intersects with climate, food, energy, mobility, security. It supports ESG goals, improves supply chain resilience, and offers stable long-term returns once the early-stage technology risk has gone away… Space is all around us, facilitating life.”

Transportation & Logistics: Navigating Smarter

Satellite data and imagery are transforming transportation and logistics by delivering real-time, high-precision information that boosts efficiency and safety. Global navigation satellite systems (GNSS), such as GPS, are fundamental to modern transport, enabling accurate vehicle tracking for haulage, fleet management, and autonomous vehicles. 

Satellite data also supports real-time traffic monitoring by enabling continuous monitoring of roads and highways. This helps logistics providers avoid congestion and delays—crucial for time-sensitive and perishable deliveries. The technology is integral to the rise of drone deliveries, which depend on precise navigation and up-to-date environmental data. 

By tracking goods in transit, satellite imagery enhances supply chain visibility and improves customer satisfaction and enables informed decisions about inventory management and delivery logistics.

Satellite data can also tell us what is happening at major ports around the world. Analysis of that data allows businesses to make intelligent decisions to manage congestion, anticipate issues, and re-route materials to minimise disruption. 

Urban Planning & Infrastructure: Building with Insight

Satellite data and imagery have become essential in urban development, offering city planners real-time, far-reaching insights that go beyond traditional planning tools. With the ability to view satellite images in real-time, planners can anticipate and address challenges such as heat islands and flood risks before they escalate. This proactive approach enables a dynamic understanding of urban ecosystems and supports smarter, more sustainable city growth.

Satellite technology allows for comprehensive analysis of land use, monitoring of urban expansion, and identification of opportunities for sustainable development. As cities evolve, these insights help planners fine-tune strategies to adapt to changing environments, ensuring that urban growth aligns with both human needs and environmental sustainability.

Furthermore, satellite imagery is integral to the development of smart cities. By integrating satellite data with Internet of Things (IoT) devices, cities can better plan and manage infrastructure projects—whether building new roads or expanding public transit. Satellite imagery provides detailed, up-to-date information on land use, zoning, and environmental conditions, making urban planning more data-driven and effective.

Disaster Response & Management: Rapid Response

Satellite data and imagery are essential tools in disaster response and management, providing rapid, real-time insights that help emergency teams assess and respond to crises more effectively. When disasters such as floods, earthquakes, or hurricanes occur, satellites can quickly map the extent of damage, helping responders pinpoint the hardest-hit locations and allocate resources where they’re needed most. This is particularly crucial in remote or inaccessible regions where ground-based assessments may be delayed.

Continuous satellite monitoring allows authorities to track how disasters unfold and adjust their response strategies as conditions evolve. The wide-ranging and detailed perspective offered by satellite imagery supports emergency planning, damage evaluation, and the coordination of relief operations. Having access to the latest satellite data empowers decision-makers to act quickly, reducing response times and enhancing the effectiveness of disaster relief efforts.

How We Can Help

If you’re considering investing in the space sector, our team can advise on investment rounds, procurement, data security, and navigating regulatory frameworks.

Please reach out to me at [email protected]. 

Space is all around us, facilitating life