Technology orbiting Earth has given us a unique perspective and fact-based information on today’s current challenges. From satellites to spacecraft to space telescopes, there has never been more data to help us find solutions to changes happening in our ecosystem. 

 We’ve used satellite tech to help us predict the weather and develop early warning systems for extreme weather events. Satellite images have helped farmers improve agricultural yields, which can reduce hunger. Satellites that monitor the Earth can be used to find sites where we can implement renewable energy resources like solar panels and windmills. The advent of the Internet has been made much more accessible through communication satellites. 

Tech in space has given us amazing opportunities to support innovations, services, and discoveries made on Earth. Through these forms of space tech, we’ll have the ability to take action to tackle the climate crisis, learn more ways we can preserve our ecosystem, and improve life on Earth. 

 Here are some ways tech in orbit has led to advancements on Earth. 

 Enhanced GPS Technology

Today, people can get an accurate location for any address they look up and view maps with acute imagery and details through GPS technology. Satellites have shaped and developed this type of tech by accurately capturing a location’s topography, producing high-definition imagery, and providing advanced geospatial analytics. 

 The more details available on a digital map, the better it will be for those who rely on it to navigate walking, driving, or riding a car. GPS technology also helps provide safer roads for people to travel. 

 

Tackling Climate Change

Addressing climate change has never been more critical than today, and Earth-observing satellites can help us understand what to do to protect our planet. From monitoring greenhouse gasses to tracking changes in permafrost and ice conditions to observing air quality, pollution and clouds, the information provided by satellites has been tremendously important for receiving data that will help preserve Earth’s ecosystems. 

Space tech like satellites gives us a clear picture of how our atmosphere changes and the adaptations we need to make. With the up-to-date information we receive from satellites, we have a great opportunity to take action to address the climate crisis. 

 

Provide Resources During Emergencies 

Before the idea of a 5G network existed, cellular phones didn’t use satellites to transmit signals. Instead, they communicate through land-based towers. No matter where you are located, if a tower is nearby, your cellphone will attach to the closest one and use that for communication purposes. That’s why there isn’t much accessibility to using a cellular phone during emergencies. On the other hand, satellite phones transmit signals through satellites orbiting the Earth. Since these phones don’t need towers to connect to for signal, they can be extremely useful during emergencies where you have to get in touch with someone, such as being in a remote area or during a power outage in your neighborhood.

 

But with 5G networks, that is all changing. The goal for the near future is to have 5G signals from space support the 5G infrastructure here on Earth. The hope is to offer customers a seamless wireless experience wherever they are. 

 

Give People More Internet Access 

 

The growth of the Internet has led to an unprecedented amount of accessibility in obtaining information. But not everyone on Earth has access to the Internet. Communication satellites — which provide signals for television, telephone, radio, and the Internet — are crucial for education and accessibility. Gathering global networks of communication satellites can help give internet access to those who don’t have it and thus allow them to share information, develop stronger communication systems and more.