As of 2023, about 65% of the world’s population has access to the Internet – approximately 5.3 billion people. The challenge is providing access to the rest of the people on the planet, delivering data, video, audio and other content. A key part of meeting this challenge lies in building networks that reach the most remote areas of the world, with a strong connection that can deliver advanced applications.
Satellite technology can play an important part in making the internet, cloud computing, edge computing and other network-based resources accessible to more people. And the sector is predicted to grow. According to a report by the World Economic Forum, the space economy is expected to be worth $1.8 trillion by 2035 – up from $630 billion in 2023 and with a growth rate of 9% per annum.
Satellites now offer a unique combination of global reach, increased performance and flexible deployment capabilities to serve as either a backup to terrestrial (wired) networks or as the primary network connection for a business, government, aircraft, ship, home and more. However, keeping satellites working effectively in space is a process that requires attention to detail to keep them within the 0.1 degree longitude box (for geostationary, or GEO, satellites). Orbital adjustments, or in short, maneuvers are required to compensate for any force acting on the satellite, for example, from the Sun and the Moon; and to a lesser extent, to avoid space debris. Maneuvers must not interfere or disrupt customer services. Sometimes this means that the accuracy with which the satellite pointing towards the Earth is controlled cannot exceed 7km or 0.01deg.
Today, satellite controllers, specialized professionals that work on the ground to manage and “pilot” satellites remotely, are cementing their essential roles within the space industry. Modern satellites are software-defined and more complex, requiring fine-tuning and skilled management to help them deliver internet and network access effectively. But what does this role really do? And what’s required to enter this career field?
Ground Control: What is a Satellite Controller?
A satellite controller ensures that all spacecraft systems are functioning correctly and take any corrective action if needed. They work in Satellite Operations Centers (SOCs) on the ground, which stay in 24 x 7 contact with satellites in space. Controllers are monitoring multiple satellites at the same time, utilizing advanced automation systems and handling complex payload subsystems. While maneuvers are planned operations, payload operations impacting customer service delivery are highly dependent on weather conditions, both space and terrestrial, and some require active controller intervention.
A (Remote) Hands-On Role: What Does a Satellite Controller Do?
The daily challenge of the satellite controller is working to ensure that all satellites are functioning as expected, so that they can deliver the data, video or other services to customers. Controllers work individually and with teams of engineers to guarantee service delivery at any time during the day. Space is a harsh environment with temperature differences of several hundred degrees Celsius, as well as peaks in radiation that impact the functionality and longevity of satellite equipment. All of these factors require close monitoring and control to ensure the on-board equipment stays healthy to help deliver a best-in-class customer experience. At Luxembourg-based satellite provider SES, satellite controllers monitor and control multiple satellites simultaneously (currently up to 10 per controller). There is always a team of 3 controllers working together, supporting each other in peak workload periods, like eclipse seasons, where the satellite’s primary power source, the Sun, is blocked for up to 72 minutes.
Career Launch: What Skills and Education are Needed?
Interested in being a controller? Satellite controllers usually have a strong technical background in engineering or physics, typically with a degree in aerospace engineering. On-the-job training is crucial, as you cannot learn the job at a university. Besides theoretical knowledge, practical experience can only be learned while working with the satellite.
Continuous learning and expanding your skills are important, as you need to have the ability to understand complex systems to make sure that satellites operate within their designated parameters. This is especially important, because today’s modern satellites have highly complex payload subsystems. The capability to work collaboratively with multiple engineering teams for problem-solving and operational efficiency is also a must.
Making a Difference: What is a Controller’s Impact on Digital Transformation?
The work of the satellite controller is crucial for maintaining the satellite infrastructure that enables global communications and data transfer. Whether you are managing a fleet of GEO, MEO (medium earth orbit) or LEO (low earth orbit) satellites, controllers play a vital role in ensuring the continuous operation of systems that support worldwide digital connectivity. Protecting the continuity of satellite operations is crucial to guarantee global connectivity and broadcasting services, especially as more of the world looks to access the internet and cloud networks.
Looking Ahead: The Future is Bright for Satellite Controllers
As satellite technology continues to innovate and play a more prominent role in global connectivity, the role of a satellite controller will shift, but the importance of having a skilled professional ready to take corrective actions will remain. They will play an important part in managing increasingly complex satellite systems and ensuring seamless communication across the globe, even in a highly automated world.
Their expertise will be vital in expanding internet access to underserved areas and delivering new technologies supporting multiple business cases. For those with a passion for space, technology and problem-solving, a career as a satellite controller offers an exciting opportunity to make a tangible impact on worldwide digital transformation.
