The article below is an edited version of a release by Research and Markets.
DUBLIN—Composites, engineered materials that combine distinct elements for superior mechanical and thermal properties, offer opportunities for enhancing efficiency and capabilities in spaceborne systems. These materials have gained significant importance for their role in advancing space exploration and satellite technologies, propelling a rapid expansion of the global market for advanced space composites, according to a release from market research firm Research and Markets.
Research and Markets’ analysis of the market is detailed in its report, “Advanced Space Composites Market – A Global and Regional Analysis: Focus on Platform, Component, Material, Manufacturing Process, Services, and Country – 2021-2031.”
What’s driving the demand for advanced space composites? For one, the growing number of satellite launches and deep space activities are having a big impact. Reusable launch systems, on-orbit manufacturing technologies, and upcoming space stations and habitats are further contributing to the use of advanced composites in space applications. Advancements in additive manufacturing of composites also offer opportunities for creating complex structures with precision and efficiency, according to Research and Markets.
The market spans various segments with unique applications. Satellite structures and components benefit from composites, which enable construction of lightweight yet robust frameworks capable of withstanding the challenges of launch, vacuum conditions, and extreme temperatures. Composite materials also play a pivotal role in rocket structures, contributing to weight reduction, improved fuel efficiency, and overall performance, the company said in the release.
Advanced propulsion systems also leverage composites to create lightweight, high-performance components. These materials enable space habitat construction and interplanetary exploration by providing protection against radiation, micro-meteoroid impacts, and temperature fluctuations, while allowing for modular construction and adaptability to different planetary environments, according to Research and Markets.
The company reported that the advanced space composites market is driving transformative changes in space technologies, offering materials and fabrication techniques that challenge traditional aerospace paradigms. As humanity ventures further into the cosmos, the integration of advanced composites is said to be “poised to redefine the limits of space exploration, satellite deployment, and ambitious interplanetary endeavors.”
The industry is not without market challenges, however. Among them are high production costs that are associated with space composites due to complex manufacturing processes and stringent quality control requirements. Also, space composites often require specialized manufacturing techniques, contributing to elevated production costs, according to the release.
Market segmentation highlights
Platform segment: The launch vehicles segment is dominant, accounting for 40.25 percent of the market in 2023. However, the satellite segment is expected to grow at the highest CAGR, 12.24 percent, during the forecast period 2023-2033 due to the rise in satellite launches and expected small satellite mega constellations, the company said.
Component segment: Structures are expected to dominate the market from 2023 to 2033 as companies focus on developing reusable launch vehicles and small launch vehicles.
Material segment: Carbon fiber leads the market with a 31.1 percent share in 2023. Carbon fiber composites have been used extensively in space applications, including launch vehicles, satellites, and deep space probes.
Manufacturing process segment: Automated fiber placement (ATL/AFP) and additive manufacturing are key processes that are contributing to the growth of the advanced space composites market, according to the release.
Service segment: Repair and maintenance, manufacturing, and design and modeling services play essential roles in the advanced space composites market.
Region segment: Europe is the highest-growing market among all regions, registering a CAGR of 13.09 percent. European countries have a strong presence in space research and development, the company said.
More information on the report: