Via Smallsat: Yes, We Really Did Call it That

Welcome to our August edition of Via Satellite, or should I say Via Smallsat — an entire edition dedicated to the vibrant small satellite market. All of the content in this edition is dedicated to this particular part of the market, and we are keen to bring you something fresh and different.

Speaking of different, we are unveiling what we think is a new exciting feature for Via Satellite. As most of you know, our 10 Hottest Companies in Satellite is one of our most eagerly anticipated articles every year. For Via Smallsat, we are unveiling 10 Smallsat Companies to Watch, as we put the microscope on a number of companies in this sector.

What was interesting about this story, is just how many fantastic young space companies there actually are. The more we dug into it, the harder it was to pick just 10. We wanted to make sure the list was diverse and represented space companies all over the world. We think this will be a popular annual feature and we are excited to bring it to you.

Speaking of vibrant markets, it wasn’t that long ago, that I thought writing about satellite as a service was something out of science fiction, but thanks to companies like Spire, it is now becoming a commercial reality. My colleague Rachel Jewett takes a look at this business model, and how we could see dramatic changes as companies examine how they can use satellites and space to develop their businesses.

The edition also includes an in-depth look at innovations in smallsat propulsion by Anne Wainscott-Sargent, and how satellite is getting increased attention in the race to provide last-mile connectivity by Jeffrey Hill.

We hope you enjoy this edition of Via Smallsat. It is meant to be fun, dynamic, and different, in many ways a mirror of the smallsat industry itself. We look forward to seeing you all soon.