The development of media culture and telecommunications has gone hand in hand since the launch of Telstar in 1962, the first satellite to transmit a television signal. Rapid technological changes have kept the sector dynamic as the internet has become intertwined with modern life. Space technology brings us to the next steps in this evolution with the development of 5G/6G satellite technology and more connectivity than ever before.
With the widespread use of mobile devices, there is a notable shift from traditional linear TV broadcasting to non-linear, on-demand streaming. Satellite technology is ready to play a crucial role in enabling new media consumption patterns, including higher demand for bandwidth and speed.
Efforts to enhance bandwidth efficiency, expand satellite capacity, and improve coverage flexibility are driving the continual evolution of the satellite industry. This evolution includes the exploration of new niche applications and market sectors, creating opportunities for innovation and industrial partnerships.
5G technology and the potential for seamless integration between terrestrial and satellite networks will make satellites the primary facilitators of new enhanced mobile broadband (eMBB) applications.
These eMBB applications include improved video streaming and immersive technologies like virtual and augmented reality, which can transform the events industry by making experiences more interactive and engaging, whether remotely, through VR, or on-site with AR.
The European Space Agency (ESA) considers 5G as a strategic priority because of its significant opportunities. ESA plays a key role in shaping business cases, driving technology advancements, and promoting standardization in the satellite industry for growth and adaptation.
Join our newsletter to never miss new reports!
The ESA Business Incubation Centres (ESA BICs) are Europe’s premier commercialisation network for supporting space start-ups. Operating in 36 centres across 23 European countries and with over 100 locations, ESA...
The European Space Agency (ESA) has signed a Letter of Intent with GEOSAT, marking an important milestone in advancing Europe’s space commercialisation landscape. Through ESA’s Partnership Initiative for Commercialisation (EPIC),...
“Our goal is not only to generate ideas, but to experiment, to test, to learn, and to collaborate. Because here in Redu, innovation is not a slogan, it’s a mindset.”...
Europe’s launch sector is undergoing a rapid transformation to meet the growing and diverse demand for access to space. Last week, amid these shifting dynamics, ESA invited the European space...
Held between September 8-12 in Brussels, the ESA Acceleration Days: Accelerate Urban Green Transition was organised in collaboration with the European Commission’s DG CLIMA and supported by a diverse group...