The first chapter examines the rapid growth of orbital launches and the development of new European spaceports (such as the UK’s Cornwall Spaceport, the first zero-emissions spaceport in our continent), with a specific focus on fuel innovation (bio-propane, kerosene derived from terrestrial plastic waste, paraffin, and green hydrogen) and on launcher reusability—clearly linked to the sustainability of space missions.
Space Logistics Report: the future of the Space Economy and space missions
X-Plore Space Logistics is a report developed by Intesa Sanpaolo Innovation Center in collaboration with Fondazione LINKS and Thales Alenia Space Italia to analyze the strategic role of space logistics in the development of the New Space Economy, which is increasingly driven by the involvement of private players. The report illustrates the challenges and opportunities related to the management of orbiting assets, space debris, and space missions, as well as the key public and private infrastructures, including spaceports, space stations, and LEO satellites.
Furthermore, Xplore Space Logistics explores crucial topics such as new technologies and the complexity of Earth-to-Space logistics, highlighting business opportunities stemming from the environmental sustainability of the space economy, international regulations, space launchers, and data management. The report serves as a reference point for companies, institutional stakeholders, startups, and investors interested in the space economy and innovation in a constantly growing sector.
Table of Contents – Space Logistics Report
Discover the report’s table of contents to explore in detail the key areas of space logistics, from space missions to data management, and from space debris management strategies to launchers.
Chapter 1 – Access to Space: Environmental Impacts and New Spaceports
Chapter 2 – Low Earth Orbit (LEO): Management, Risks, and New Applications
The second section delves into the governance of LEO orbits and space traffic management, highlighting how orbital debris represents one of the main challenges of space logistics. The chapter also analyzes new models of space stations and the opportunities offered by microgravity, as well as international regulations, lunar economy, and inter-nation cooperation in the field of space logistics.
Chapter 3 – Communication and Data Management in Space
This chapter provides an overview of advanced satellite communication technologies and systems for data management and cybersecurity within space missions. It highlights the evolution of data management services and cybersecurity innovations, which play an increasingly crucial role in the New Space Economy.
Chapter 4 – Management and Decommissioning of Space Assets
The fourth and final chapter examines technologies for the active removal of space debris and the importance of space tugs, as well as strategies to extend the operational life of satellites (robotic maintenance, in-orbit refueling, and modular assembly). It also explores the environmental impacts related to the decommissioning of space assets for a sustainable management of orbital resources.
Key Insights from the X-Plore Space Logistics Report
Growth of the Space Logistics market
- $400 billion: the estimated global value of the Space Economy, a figure that is rapidly increasing.
- $5.3 billion: the value of the space logistics market in 2023. This figure is expected to exceed $17 billion by 2030, with a CAGR (Compound Annual Growth Rate) of 18.33%.
Increasingly open access to private operators: from launch to in-orbit manufacturing, opportunities are growing for private companies to enter the space sector. At the same time, European spaceports are emerging as key hubs for space logistics and satellite missions.
Sustainability and orbital debris management
- Over 35,000: cataloged objects currently in orbit, increasing the risk of collisions and the onset of Kessler Syndrome.
- Focus on: active technologies for space debris removal (robotic tugs, lasers, and modular platforms) and international sustainability standards such as the Space Sustainability Rating
Edge Computing and Data Security
- Implementation of edge computing on satellites for real-time data analysis and optimization of Earth-to-Space communications.
- Growing demand for cyber resilience to protect data from attacks and solar interference.
Opportunities for innovative companies and startups
- European projects and Italian companies such as D-Orbit, Thales Alenia, and Leonardo are focusing on satellite maintenance, refueling, and space manufacturing.
- Emerging markets for innovative services: in-orbit refueling, repair, micro-manufacturing, robotics, and AI.
Why download the Space Logistics Report?
The report provides you with a complete, exhaustive, and exclusive overview of space missions, space logistics, and the New Space Economy, from successful case studies to tools that accelerate innovation in the space sector. By downloading the report, you will receive:
- A comprehensive analysis of the most relevant technologies, market trends, and opportunities offered by space logistics;
- In-depth insights on spaceports, space debris management, launchers, and LEO satellites;
- Analysis of regulations and environmental sustainability in the New Space Economy;
- Case studies and applications of robotics, AI, edge computing, green propulsion, and new satellite services;
- An overview of new players in the space economy, including Italian, European, and global projects, and public-private partnerships.
Download the full report on Space Logistics
Read the report for free. Register in just a few seconds, log in, and gain access to exclusive
data and valuable insights that will help you anticipate trends in the Space Economy and innovate in a rapidly growing sector.
The Full Report