The Technological Trajectory of LEO Satellites: Perspectives from Main Path Analysis

This research explores the growth potential and advancements in low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite technology. To establish a strong position, business strategists must understand key industry players and communication channels. Drawing from this need, this study conducts a systematic and quantitative...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:IEEE transactions on engineering management 2024-01, Vol.71, p.1-15
Main Authors: Chen, Po-Hsuan, Cho, Rico Lee-Ting
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Acquisitions & mergers
Companies
cross-citation
Industries
Iridium network
LEO satellite
Low earth orbit satellites
Low earth orbits
main path analysis
patent citation
Rocket launches
Satellite communication
Satellite communications
Satellites
technological trajectory
Trajectories
Trajectory
Citations: Items that this one cites
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Summary:This research explores the growth potential and advancements in low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite technology. To establish a strong position, business strategists must understand key industry players and communication channels. Drawing from this need, this study conducts a systematic and quantitative analysis to shed light on pivotal technologies and their numerous applications. We analyzed U.S. patents related to LEO satellite technology from 1980 to 2022 using main path analysis (MPA) to uncover the evolutionary trajectory and the associated actors. MPA results reveal technological trajectories and key players in different development phases. The last phase shows that Iridium NEXT brings more opportunities for satellite communication. Our analysis infers four trends. First, the first Iridium satellite program facilitated the maturity of LEO satellite communications. Second, advanced applications are transcending geographical barriers. Third, company mergers and acquisitions help the industry grow and represent an attempt to integrate LEO satellite communications into services or products. Fourth, "technology implementers" will play a larger role at the forefront in the next stage of LEO satellite development, driving the subsequent phase of LEO satellite evolution. Based on the research findings, this study offers managerial suggestions and practical implications to firms for strategically positioning.
ISSN:0018-9391
1558-0040
DOI:10.1109/TEM.2023.3347921