Back

Maritime & Fisheries

From ship owners to coast guards - the maritime sector benefits from Earth and space technology for safer navigation, inspections, pollution

Credits: Chris Pagan Unsplash

Unlocking Maritime Efficiency Through Space-Based Solutions

The maritime industry is undergoing a digital transformation, with space-based technologies playing a key role in this shift. The global maritime satellite market is projected to grow from $3.93 billion in 2022 to $10.88 billion by 2033, driven by a need for enhanced communication, navigation, and operational oversight at sea. Satellite-based Earth observation and communication systems support real-time monitoring, environmental tracking, and improved safety, especially in remote or signal-poor regions. For maritime actors such as ship owners, port authorities, and offshore operators, this means greater efficiency, reduced risk, and better decision-making.

Integrating space technology enables predictive maintenance, emissions monitoring, optimized routes, and stronger situational awareness. As the maritime digitization market is expected to exceed $423 billion by 2031, adopting space tech is not just a competitive edge—it’s becoming a necessity for sustainable and secure operations. Embracing space technology unlocks smarter, cleaner, and more resilient maritime futures.

//
About

Ship inspection

By leveraging drones and GNSS, ship inspections can be conducted without exposing personnel to risk in hard-to-reach or hazardous areas.

Surveillance and security

Satellite and drone technologies aid in detecting piracy, illegal fishing, smuggling, and unauthorized access in territorial waters

Search and rescue operations

Satellites enhance distress signal detection and coordination for faster maritime emergency response

AIS tracking from space

Satellite-based Automatic Identification System (AIS) improves global vessel tracking, including detection of "dark ships" in remote areas

Earth Observation for environmental monitoring

Using satellite imagery to detect oil spills, monitor emissions, track marine pollution, and ensure regulatory compliance

Weather forecasting and route optimization

Satellite data helps ships avoid severe weather, reduce fuel consumption, and optimize travel routes

Cargo and supply chain monitoring

Satellite-based technologies enhance cargo tracking, improve coordination across global shipping routes, and support balanced, efficient cargo loading

Related Resources

Maritime
Drones & Robotics
Galileo enabled drone systems for maritime operations

Case study
Maritime
Maritime connectivity through LEO satellites

Case study
Maritime
Robotic solutions for maritime tasks

Case study
Maritime
Searchlights designed for safety and rescue at sea

Case study
Security
Maritime
How Danish Company Tordenskjold Uses Satellite Technology to Enhance Maritime Security

Case study
Maritime
Sensemakers is Transforming the Danish Maritime Environment Using Space

Case study
//
Newsletter

opportunities in the commercial space sector

I'm not a martian
Subscription confirmed. Welcome aboard!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.