by The Rise of Satellite-based Connectivity as a Service
The space industry is rapidly transforming with the advent of new technologies that are allowing broadband connectivity to be delivered via satellite on a global scale. Traditional satellite services focused on broadcasting data to large geographic regions. However, the new generation of low earth orbit (LEO) satellite constellations allow for targeted, continuous coverage of specific regions. This has paved the way for Satellite as a Service (SaaS) offerings that deliver connectivity on demand.
Major companies like SpaceX, OneWeb, and Amazon are deploying massive LEO satellite fleets that will completely change how internet access is delivered globally. Their constellations will consist of hundreds or even thousands of satellites that orbit much closer to earth, allowing for faster speeds and lower latency compared to traditional geostationary satellites. This increased capability enables an on-demand service model where bandwidth can be purchased and delivered via satellite to virtually any location on the planet.
Delivering Internet Access to the Hardest to Reach Places
One of the biggest advantages of satellite connectivity as a service is its ability to reach remote and rural areas that terrestrial infrastructure struggles to service. Vast regions like the Arctic, Antarctica, and areas across Africa, Asia, and Latin America have very little wired connectivity options available today. SaaS changes this by using satellites to beam broadband signals directly to wireless equipment on the ground.
Companies providing these services are focused on connecting businesses, governments, NGOs, and local communities in previously unserved areas. Remote mining and energy industry sites, scientific research stations, islands, and villages deep in jungles or mountains that have been left behind by fiber and cellular networks can now get high-speed internet from the sky. Aid organizations are also looking to use SaaS to deliver connectivity after disasters to help relief efforts.
Increasing Affordability and Options for End Users
Unlike traditional satellite internet which required large fixed terminal equipment and long term service contracts, SaaS allows for flexible, scalable consumption-based pricing. End users simply need a small dish or antenna to access the satellite network. They can purchase bandwidth by the gigabyte or add data passes as needed without long term commitments.
With some SaaS providers even looking to offer internet access directly to consumers, individuals living in remote rural homes may soon be able to access broadband speeds comparable to urban cable or fiber with the installation of a small user terminal. Competition between the various SaaS networks coming online will drive down prices significantly over time as the industry scales.
Enabling New Technology Deployments
Universal broadband connectivity provided by SaaS will accelerate digital transformation around the globe and enable new applications not possible before. Remote high-speed connectivity empowers telemedicine, distance learning, smart farming, and more. It removes the location barrier that has held back technology deployments.
For example, cellular companies will be able to quickly expand rural networks and fill coverage gaps by backhauling mobile data with satellite backhaul. This will especially benefit developing markets. Additionally, sensor networks for IoT will be able to monitor critical infrastructure like pipelines, railroads and telecom towers even in the most isolated areas using satellite connectivity.
Making Global Coverage a Reality
Once fully deployed, the major SaaS constellations are expected to provide truly global internet access that is economical for a wide range of uses. SpaceX’s Starlink already has over 1,500 satellites in low orbit and is signing up early customers. OneWeb aims to have 650 satellites by 2023 to deliver broadband worldwide. Amazon plans to launch over 3,000 satellites by the mid-2020s for its Project Kuiper.
With inter-satellite laser links, these mega-constellations will work together to ensure users virtually never lose a connection. Their distributed global coverage using short-pass visibility will allow for continuous connectivity even on ships, planes and other vehicles anywhere in the world. Satellite internet will cease to be a niche solution and become an integral part of global digital infrastructure. The dawn of the satellite connectivity as a service era is rapidly transforming lives globally.
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- Source: CoherentMI, Public sources, Desk research
- We have leveraged AI tools to mine information and compile it
