Recent advancements in the satellite sector highlight the rapid evolution of technologies that are redefining communication and data collection in aerospace, defense, and beyond. From ultra-high-capacity broadband satellites to the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in satellite operations, the industry is experiencing transformative changes that promise to enhance connectivity and operational efficiency.

High-Capacity Broadband Satellite Launch

On November 5, 2025, Viasat successfully launched its ViaSat-3 F2 satellite, marking a significant milestone in the company’s efforts to provide high-capacity broadband services across the Americas. Positioned at 79° west longitude, this ultra-high-capacity geostationary satellite complements the previously launched ViaSat-3 F1 satellite, which focuses on North America.

The ViaSat-3 F2 features dynamic beamforming technology that allows for real-time allocation of bandwidth, enhancing the user experience for applications such as commercial aviation Wi-Fi, fixed broadband, and government communications. Expected to enter service in early 2026 following in-orbit testing, this satellite exemplifies the growing demand for robust and reliable satellite communication infrastructures.

AI Integration in Satellite Operations

The integration of AI in satellite operations is gaining traction, with industry leaders like Eutelsat, Space42, Sky Perfect JSAT, and Spire Global advocating for its transformative potential. AI enhances various aspects of satellite communication, including signal processing, network management, and predictive maintenance.

By leveraging on-board AI and edge computing capabilities, satellites can perform real-time data processing in orbit, significantly reducing latency and improving resilience. Moreover, AI facilitates the fusion of multi-source data—optical, Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR), and LiDAR—leading to enhanced Earth observation and real-time space intelligence. This capability is crucial for applications such as disaster response and environmental monitoring.

Innovative Satellite Imaging Technology

In an exciting development, Extellis, a spin-off from Duke University, has secured $6.8 million in seed funding to advance its synthetic aperture radar (SAR) imaging technology. This innovative approach allows for the capture of up to 10,000 images per day—expanding imaging capabilities by a factor of 100 compared to traditional systems.

What sets Extellis apart is its ability to operate through clouds and at night, delivering real-time images within 15 minutes. This technology has vast applications, including precision agriculture, pipeline monitoring, disaster response, and navigation in Arctic regions. The upcoming launch of its first satellite is anticipated to be a game-changer in the field of remote sensing.

In-Space Manufacturing and Power Generation

Dcubed is leading the charge in in-space manufacturing technology with its ARAQYS satellite series. The ARAQYS-D3 satellite aims to showcase multi-kilowatt-class power systems, a critical advancement for future orbital missions. Previous missions, ARAQYS-D1 and D2, have successfully validated deployable structures and solar arrays manufactured in space, marking a significant breakthrough in achieving power autonomy for small satellites.

This in-space manufacturing capability could play a crucial role in enhancing satellite longevity and operational efficiency, paving the way for more ambitious space exploration goals.

Upcoming Earth Observation Satellite Launches

The European Space Agency (ESA) is set to launch the HydroGNSS mission on November 20, 2025. This twin-satellite mission aims to monitor Earth’s water cycle and will be launched aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket. The HydroGNSS mission is part of a rideshare launch that includes the Italian IRIDE mission and small satellites from Greece, developed by ICEYE. This launch will be webcast live by ESA, providing a unique opportunity for the public to witness the mission in real time.

Additionally, NASA and SpaceX recently launched the Sentinel-6B satellite from Vandenberg Space Force Base, which will further enhance our capabilities to monitor Earth’s oceans and contribute to international efforts in climate and oceanographic data collection.

Commercial Space Launch Milestone

Blue Origin achieved a significant milestone on November 17, 2025, with the successful launch of its New Glenn rocket, carrying NASA satellites bound for Mars. This mission not only demonstrates the capabilities of the New Glenn rocket but also marked the first successful landing of its first-stage booster, a key step toward achieving reusability and competitiveness within the commercial space sector.

Small Satellites and National Security

The increasing recognition of small satellites in low Earth orbit (LEO) is reshaping telecommunications, space exploration, and defense capabilities. These compact satellites are integral to the U.S. space strategy, providing enhanced capabilities in intelligence gathering and national security. As technology continues to evolve, small satellites are expected to play a pivotal role in the ongoing space race.

Conclusion

The advancements in satellite technology—from high-capacity broadband to AI integration and in-space manufacturing—illustrate a dynamic and rapidly evolving industry. As these technologies mature, they promise to enhance global connectivity, improve data collection for critical applications, and support national security efforts. Looking ahead, the aerospace and defense sectors are poised for exciting developments that will redefine our relationship with space and technology.

These innovations not only reflect the ingenuity of current technologies but also hint at a future where satellites play an even more critical role in our daily lives and national interests.

References

1. Dcubed Powers Ahead: Introducing ARAQYS – The Power Solution … (dcubed.space) - 11/18/2025 “The ARAQYS-D3 satellite will demonstrate how in-space manufacturing and large-scale economic power generation can unlock a new class of small …

2. Blue Origin launches satellites bound for Mars | November 17, 2025 (www.youtube.com) - 11/17/2025 Today on CNN10: We get an update on the fallout from the longest US government shutdown on record - and how some communities are still …

3. NASA, SpaceX Launch US-European Satellite to Monitor Earth’s … (www.nasa.gov) - 11/17/2025 The Sentinel-6B satellite lifted off aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from Launch Complex 4 East at Vandenberg Space Force Base in central …

4. Duke-Invented Satellite Tech Moving Closer from Lab to Orbit (today.duke.edu) - 11/1/2025 Duke-Invented Satellite Tech Moving Closer from Lab to Orbit … Michael Boyarsky has pioneered a new way of making satellite imaging antennas.

5. Watch: HydroGNSS, IRIDE and Greek mission satellites launch - ESA (www.esa.int) - 11/1/2025 The European Space Agency’s HydroGNSS, a twin-satellite mission to gather data on Earth’s water cycle, is scheduled to launch on 20 November at …

6. ViaSat-3 F2 Satellite Scheduled to Launch November 5, 2025 (www.viasat.com) - 10/31/2025 Viasat’s ultra-high-capacity VS-3 F2 satellite has completed its cross-country flight from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) to …

7. Satellite’s AI Future: The Big Debate | October/November 2025 (interactive.satellitetoday.com) - 10/7/2025 Experts from Eutelsat, Space42, Sky Perfect JSAT, and Spire Global weigh in on how AI will impact satellite operations and services.

8. NASA, SpaceX launch US–European satellite to monitor Earth’s … (phys.org) The Sentinel-6B satellite lifted off aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from Launch Complex 4 East at Vandenberg Space Force Base in central …

9. How small satellites can help the US win the space race (news.cornell.edu) Sending spacecraft into low Earth orbit could transform next-generation telecommunications, space exploration and national security.