Like phones and computers, satellites are also getting smaller and better. Smaller satellites are called nanosatellites. These satellites are about the size of a human hand, weigh between 1 and 10 kg and can do almost everything a conventional satellite does – at a fraction of the cost.

Nanosatellites or microsatellites were initially developed for research purposes, however, the cost-efficient aspect of this technology is powering several successful start-ups in Australia and starting what some scientists and industry experts are calling a “nanosat boom”.

Demand for real-time intelligence to support the Internet of Things (IoT) is changing the way the world operates as we move towards data-driven technologies. Current terrestrial wireless communication technologies such as 3G, 4G, WiFi and WiMax work well over medium range distances, but none of them can cover a whole country or continent and the networks are getting congested with the multiplication of IoT devices. One of the solutions to overcome these problems is investment in space infrastructure, as it can help deliver additional data communication, even to rural areas.

A space-based IoT communication system requires an adaptable infrastructure that will suit various applications. The infrastructure shown below shows a constellation of nanosatellites communicating between each other via Inter Satellite linkURL (ISL). This allows IoT data to be passed through each satellite, facilitating storage and communication with the ground stations, which then communicate data directly to the cloud or other intended terminals.

What’s in the Australian sky (or just over the horizon) for this technology?

Applications for nanosatellites are diversifying. From earth observation to reconnaissance missions, start-ups are leveraging data from nanosatellites to improve military surveillance, predict the weather, track assets and even monitor endangered species. We can markedly improve efficiency in industries such as telecommunications, agriculture, mining, defence and logistics thanks to this technology.

The nano/microsatellite market is growing tremendously in Australia. After the announcement of the Australian Space Agency, many Australian commercial companies and start-ups have publically revealed their intentions regarding future launches of nanosatellites. South Australian start-up, Fleet, have recently opened its first ground station centre that will track and receive data from nanosatellites set to launch late this year.

Australian companies are looking to expand into this emerging market. Here’s a look at four well-established Australian industries poised to benefit from space-based technologies.