Moon or Mars – The next phase in space is taking place much closer to Earth than many people think, as researchers and companies set their sights on very low Earth orbit, or VLEO. With about 15,000 satellites already orbiting Earth, most of them in low-Earth orbit, at altitudes of a few hundred to 2,000 kilometers, congestion is becoming a problem. Large constellations of satellites are beginning to disrupt orbit, increasing the risks; And VLEO, close to Earth’s atmosphere 100–400 km above the surface, has become a viable option with scientific and commercial benefits.

Very low Earth orbit satellites promise sharper imaging, faster connectivity and better climate monitoring, according to a report published by The Conversation and shared via expert voices from Space. com VLEO satellites can provide clearer images, faster communications and better weather data because they operate so close to the Earth’s surface. Flying satellites close to the ground enhances agriculture, disaster response, climate monitoring and security, providing accurate details and reducing signal lag for smooth real-time services.

New propulsion breakthroughs could open up the future of satellites flying close to Earth. The primary obstacle is atmospheric drag, as remnants of Earth’s atmosphere slow satellites and pull them out of orbit. To remain in orbit, spacecraft must constantly move forward, causing conventional systems to rapidly deplete fuel.

New propulsion concepts are changing that equation. Engineers are testing systems powered by atmospheric gases that could keep satellites in the air for longer periods of time and operate safely in this demanding area. Despite the extreme heat and corrosive nuclear oxygen challenges, increasing investment and billions of funding could soon make everyday services dependent on closer-flying VLEO satellites.