How many satellites are there orbiting earth

Satellite descriptions and ephemeris are sourced from space-tracker. The satellite-js JavaScript library is used to convert the TLE for each satellite into a geographic location. Souce code for this application can be found here. Quick Links. All Junk Not Junk. With the huge growth in satellites, fears of a crowded sky are starting to come true. A day after SpaceX launched its first 60 Starlink satellites, astronomers began to see them blocking out the stars. Experts have been studying and discussing the potential problems posed by these constellations and ways the satellite companies could address them.

These include reducing the number and brightness of satellites, sharing their location and supporting better image-processing software. As low-Earth orbit gets crowded, concern about space debris increases, as does a real possibility of collisions. Less than 10 years ago, the democratization of space was a goal yet to be realized. Now, with student projects on the space station and more than countries having at least one satellite in space, one could argue that that goal is within reach.

Every disruptive technological advancement requires updates to the rules — or the creation of new ones. SpaceX has tested ways to lower the impact of Starlink constellations , and Amazon has disclosed plans to deorbit their satellites within days after mission completion.

Single Accounts Corporate Solutions Universities. Premium statistics. Read more. Of the 3, active artificial satellites orbiting the Earth as of January 1, , 1, belong to the United States. This is by far the largest number of any single country, with their nearest competitor, China, accounting for only Types of satellites Artificial satellites are human-made objects deliberately placed in orbit. Since the first satellite was launched by the Soviet Union in , over 5, satellites launches have taken place for a variety of objectives.

Space exploration also relies on the space telescopes, space stations and spacecraft included under this category. The space industry In the years between and , the global satellite industry almost doubled to reach billion U. Revenue is generated from building, launching and operating satellites.

You need a Single Account for unlimited access. Full access to 1m statistics Incl. Single Account. View for free. Show source. Show detailed source information? Register for free Already a member? Therese Wood Writer, Visual Capitalist.

Take action on UpLink. Explore context. Explore the latest strategic trends, research and analysis. Satellites are a vital part of our infrastructure, helping us to use GPS, access the internet and support studies of the Earth. Out of the 2, operational satellites circling the globe in April , 1, were for communication services. Over half of satellites in space are non-operational. Have you read? Argentina is launching a state-of-the-art satellite to protect its forests These satellite photos show how COVID lockdowns have impacted global emissions These satellite pictures show the impact of the Coronavirus.

Space is open for business. Nearly 10, satellites will be launched form Over 1, satellites are for communication purposes. Space operators.