Space exploration was once dominated by governments and massive billion-dollar missions. Increasingly, smaller and cheaper satellites are changing that model.
Miniaturised spacecraft known as CubeSats can now perform tasks that previously required much larger systems, including Earth observation, communications and scientific research.
This has lowered barriers for universities, startups and smaller countries entering the space sector.
Companies such as SpaceX have also helped reduce launch costs, accelerating the growth of commercial satellite networks.
Supporters say these technologies expand access to data and innovation. Satellites can support agriculture, disaster monitoring, navigation and internet connectivity.
However, rapid expansion raises concerns about orbital congestion and space debris.
Experts suggest the future of space innovation may depend not only on reaching farther destinations, but on managing near-Earth space sustainably.
