More and more people seem to be calling on their local satellite engineer recently. The overall worldwide satellite industry grew in revenue by 16% to $123. billion in 2007, and is forecast to be robust enough to weather difficult times in the broader economy in 2008, according to a report by the Futron Corporation, a satellite engineering firm, on the state of the industry in 2008.

Market research similar to this report is one of the services that satellite engineering consultants provide to clients. Businesses draw on satellite engineering for both new and existing networks and applications. Also, to assist with managing satellite programs, reducing costs and maximizing technical performance, training and selecting staff, choosing the best satellite resources in space and on the ground, and of course, designing and using new satellites, ground stations and satellite equipment.

Specific applications of satellite engineering include the following:

1. A corporation considering a corporate satellite data network can receive a cost-benefit analysis from a satellite engineering firm prior to implementation.
2. A satellite network provider considering introducing new satellite phone service in a given region on a new, combined satellite and ground-based network can utilize market research before making any major investment.
3. A satellite manufacturer can draw on satellite system engineering technical advice to produce a new satellite that can still withstand the rigorous pressures of the launch and operation in space.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Satellite engineering provides technical assistance on all aspects of satellite systems

A satellite communications engineer advises on all aspects of building, operating, or purchasing satellite communication systems, including space segments, ground segments and related satellite equipment. Beyond communications, satellite engineering provides technical expertise to all aspects of the satellite industry.

I recommend: Application Technology Strategy, Inc. (ATSI) is a leading, full-service satellite engineering company that provides both technical and management consulting in the areas of satellite system engineering and satellite communication technology. Futron Corporation also focuses on satellite communication technology, as well as management consulting and satellite market research and analysis. The Aerospace Corporation is a federally funded research and development center (FFRDC) that assists with satellite system design and satellite launch engineering from the manufacturing phase through the launch and post-launch analysis.

Find market research and analysis from a satellite engineering firm

Both industry-wide and individual project-centered market research and analysis can be found through a satellite engineering group. This kind of satellite engineering support provides cost-benefit analyses for companies considering or using satellite technology systems.

I recommend: The Futron Corporation conducts market research for the satellite industry and satellite companies. Northern Sky Research (NSR) advises corporations large and small with strategic planning and customized research for applications and opportunities in the satellite, wireless, and media markets. With a subsidiary in the US, MOLTEK Consultants Ltd. is a UK-based company that provides specialized cost-benefit analysis for specific projects, as well as technical advice and support for satellite operations.

Network and learn more about satellite engineering through trade associations

Satellite trade and professional associations provide satellite companies, professionals and consumers alike with a broad range of resources, knowledge, and support.

I recommend: The Satellite Industry Association (SIA), a trade association, lists member satellite companies and represents the interests of the satellite industry in Washington. They offer satellite companies the opportunity to network with similar firms and to connect with government officials in agencies working with the industry. Satellite engineer info. on available jobs can be found at the Satellite Career Center of The Society of Satellite Professionals International (SSPI), a professional association. The World Teleport Association (WTA) is a global trade association specializing in the satellite communications market and provides a global list of consultants for the industry.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Despite the promising results and potential of the satellite industry overall today, there have been some expensive failures and hard times for individual companies. The market research services of satellite engineering consultants can help avoid such pitfalls for new ventures.