The space sector refers to the collection of businesses, organisations and agencies involved in the research, development, manufacturing and operation of space-related technologies and activities. The space sector comprises a broad range of fields, from space exploration and satellite communications to planetary explorations and space-based scientific research.
The sector is divided into two main categories: upstream and downstream.
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Upstream space activities include the design, development and manufacturing of spacecraft, launch vehicles and space-related technologies. This includes everything from designing and building rockets to developing and testing new materials and technologies for space exploration.
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Downstream space activities are focused on using space-based technologies and data to solve problems on Earth. This includes satellite-based communications, remote sensing, satellite navigation and space-based scientific research.