The dramatic increase in orbital objects means that managing space safely and sustainably now depends on handling more data than ever. In recent years, reusable launch vehicles and mega constellations have boosted the number of artificial objects orbiting Earth by ten times, sparking a need to process vast amounts of information.
If you’ve ever struggled with slow systems or outdated data formats, you’ll appreciate that a 2021 study predicted space-related data could exceed 500 exabytes this decade. Think of it as managing the data equivalent to 3.9 billion smartphones—an enormous challenge for anyone responsible for near-Earth operations up to the geostationary belt.
Currently, over 13,000 satellites circle our planet, with constellations like Starlink controlling more than 60% of them. Although these satellites use autonomous algorithms to dodge collisions, each manoeuvre slightly reduces their lifespan. Coupled with the complexities of tracking non-catalogued space debris, the task of managing such diverse, multi-dimensional data becomes even more critical.
Historically, systems like the US Space Surveillance Network (SSN) and services such as SpaceTrack.org have been the backbone of space object monitoring. At 3S Northumbria, in collaboration with partners like Exo-Analytic Solutions, the focus is on integrating data from multiple sources—radar, telescopes, and space-based sensors—to meet today’s demanding space traffic management needs.
Satellites in low-Earth orbit travel at around 7 km per second, leaving little time for reaction when alerts are triggered. This speed calls for near‑real‑time data sharing and robust processing capabilities. Standardising information exchange internationally could bridge the current gaps between trackers, regulators, and operators.
Liability issues and data quality remain significant concerns. Operators need reliable, accurate data to avoid costly damage claims, and efforts are already underway with groups like the Consultative Committee for Space Data Systems (CCSDS) and the International Organisation for Standardisation (ISO) to set global standards for data collection and exchange.
Improved communication between satellite operators, regulators, and space situational awareness providers is essential. Shifting space safety towards a more civil orientation might even allow military organisations to concentrate on security. Initiatives like the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Traffic Coordination System for Space (TraCSS) are paving the way by offering basic SSA data and services to keep spaceflight safe.
By tackling technical, operational, and governance challenges together, we can manage the mounting data deluge and ensure safer, more sustainable operations in our increasingly busy space environment.
