Top 10 ‘Out of this World’ Space Technology Trends for 2025
Space connects us all. It's a vital link between our technologies, our security and our humanity. From internet connectivity to air traffic control and military operations, space is relied upon by billions of people daily.
The space domain enables transformative technologies to be leveraged in a myriad of ways—whether it’s on the battlefield or exploring our solar system. That’s why Lockheed Martin is investing in differentiated capabilities and integrated mission solutions that accelerate outcomes for our customers and reimagining how space can connect us.
Here are the top 10 space technology trends shaping the future of satellite communications, remote sensing and space exploration:
- Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning (AI/ML)
- Advanced Communications
- Proliferated Satellite Constellations
- Interoperability and Connectivity
- Nuclear Space Propulsion and Power
- Connecting Domains through Space Data
- Human Lunar Exploration
- Climate and Weather-Monitoring Technology
- Space-Based Quantum Communication
- Advanced Manufacturing
1. Artificial Intelligence / Machine Learning (AI/ML)AI/ML is being integrated into space systems ─ both in orbit and in ground-based command and control stations. It’s increasing the speed of decision making, enabling autonomous operations and enhancing situational awareness.
Currently, Lockheed Martin has over 80 space projects and programs using AI/ML. For example, we have collaborated with NVIDIA to build a prototype of an AI-driven Earth and Space Observing Digital Twin that can process live streams of incoming weather data and display current global environmental conditions from weather forecasting models. It’s demonstrating how using AI can display high-resolution, accurate, and timely depictions of satellites and sensor data.
5G-enabled networks (and beyond) bring more reliable, higher throughput and ultra-low-latency connectivity. In the near future, satellite constellations supporting space-based 5G networks will manage data in space, seamlessly integrate more devices and transport more data at higher speeds around the world, even in the most remote locations.
Lockheed Martin is advancing this capability by demonstrating how space can make that critical connection. Our 5G.MIL® Unified Network Solutions provide cohesive communications, edge processing and advanced networking capabilities for interoperable, resilient and secure connectivity and data flow across all domains.
In addition, we are on schedule to launch Tactical Satellite – or TacSat – a small intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance spacecraft that will host the first 5G.MIL payload on orbit. It will demonstrate data processing onboard the satellite instead of having to relay data between space to ground stations, paving the way for high-speed, low-latency connectivity for both military and commercial uses.
Space missions, which previously were supported by a handful of larger satellites, are now adopting proliferated network architectures that use hundreds of smaller satellites in multiple orbits. These small satellites often provide a lower cost, rapid deployment, and high flexibility to update technology. And when used to form large constellations, they foster greater resilience in the face of threats or unforeseen anomalies.
Lockheed Martin is supporting the Space Development Agency’s (SDA) transport layer, a constellation of satellites that will provide assured, resilient, low-latency military data and connectivity worldwide. The assets on orbit and in current production are providing connectivity to space assets at low Earth orbit (LEO) and interface across domains using military downlink protocols. These satellites are assembled, integrated, and tested in Lockheed Martin's Small Satellite Processing & Delivery Center (SPD) Center, promoting high-volume production and flexibility. In fact, six scalable, parallel assembly lines can host different classifications of missions at the same time and accommodate all stages of small satellite development.
In addition, we are working with the U.S. Space Force on the missile warning architecture, building a missile-tracking satellite for medium Earth orbit (MEO) to be able to see closer to Earth and track a wider area than satellites in LEO.
Integration is table stakes for the military operations of the future. A single domain strategy favoring one domain and minimizing others is fraught with risk – which is why it is important to recognize that all systems are a part of a larger ecosystem that includes ground, sea and cyber.
The air and space domains are some of the most critical areas to enable interoperability. Air-Space Integration refers to the seamless and efficient interaction between these systems, which is becoming increasingly important as we rely more on unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), satellites, and other technologies. Through this connectivity, we can deliver a solution where the whole is greater than the sum of its parts. For example, Space can provide the persistent coverage and air assets can be called on when needed and be flexible to the end-user needs.
Continuing to strengthen this imperative, Lockheed Martin is investing in technology that connects new systems to existing networks and architectures to support this multi-domain approach. We are self-funding technology demonstrations to rapidly prove out and showcase the technology maturity on orbit, delivering critical capabilities faster. Ultimately, air-space integration will be one approach that facilitates the development of joint missions, faster situational awareness and secure mesh networking to share mission-critical data and vastly improve the deterrence value.
Nuclear space power and propulsion systems offer increased efficiency, reduced fuel consumption and longer mission durations, enabling spacecraft to maneuver between Earth orbits and expand interplanetary travel.
Lockheed Martin is developing new propulsion technologies including nuclear thermal propulsion (NTP), nuclear electrical propulsion (NEP) and fission surface power (FSP) for faster, more efficient and agile spacecraft travel.
With NTP, we’re looking to cut travel times significantly through high-efficiency thrust. Super-hot pressurized propellent is funneled out a nozzle to create a powerful thrust. Increased speed from NTP means benefits like longer launch windows, less crew exposure to cosmic radiation and spacecraft getting to their destinations quicker or with much higher mass.
In addition, we are designing an NEP system for a spacecraft as part of the U.S. Air Force Research Laboratory’s (AFRL) Joint Emergent Technology Supplying On-Orbit Nuclear (JETSON) program. It uses a fission reactor that generates heat, which is then transferred to the engines to produce electricity. JETSON serves as a critical step forward in using NEP to get humans to the Moon, Mars and beyond.
Data is a strategic asset. Space-based data gathering and processing technologies enable real-time data analysis, decision-making and rapid response across all domains.
Global Positioning System (GPS) is the most trusted space-based navigation system in the world, with nearly 6 billion users worldwide. Lockheed Martin’s GPS IIIF satellite provides next-generation positioning, navigation and timing (PNT) capabilities – including a specialized signal for commercial aircraft safety – for critical civilian infrastructure and military operations around the world.
In March 2024, Lockheed Martin launched Pony Express 2, a pair of 12U small satellites with four payloads which provide tactical communications; Ka-band crosslinks and mesh network; RF sensing across multiple bands; and a high-end central processing unit. This NASA-standard delay-tolerant, mesh network shows how operators can remain resiliently connected by data that is relayed undetected through a constellation of satellites directly to tactical edge users.
NASA is currently working to establish a human presence on the Moon. The Artemis missions will build a global community, drive a new lunar economy and inspire the next generation of explorers. Technological advancements in transportation, power, resource utilization and advanced habitats will be needed to pave the way for these future human missions.
At Lockheed Martin, we have a vision for a water-based lunar architecture. We have a path forward for how each piece of infrastructure will build upon the next as we explore space, build a lunar economy and settle permanently and sustainably among the stars.
It starts with getting people and cargo safely to the Moon. We are developing the Orion spacecraft, the only deep space-rated vehicle capable of transporting astronauts through the most dangerous environments. The spacecraft is packed with technology such as life support systems designed for long duration missions, deep space communications and protection from cosmic and solar radiation.
We are also in the midst of developing lunar surface power systems, a lunar mobility vehicle, inflatable habitats and more for lunar sustainability and as a launchpad for future Mars missions.
Space-based remote sensing and Earth observation systems provide valuable data for weather monitoring and climate intelligence. This data can also be used to model severe weather so scientists can better understand how these events might impact daily life and military operations.
NOAA’s Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellite (GOES) spacecraft have been delivering reliable weather forecasts for decades. The Lockheed Martin-built GOES-R satellite series provides more timely and accurate weather forecasts. It delivers crucial atmospheric, hydrologic, oceanic, climatic, solar, and space data, greatly enhancing the detection and observation of weather conditions that can help save lives and property.
Recently, we were awarded a contract from NASA on behalf of NOAA, to develop and build the nation's next generation weather satellite constellation, Geostationary Extended Observations (GeoXO). These new satellites will expand upon the GOES-R series to include new observations of our oceans and air pollution. As part of this constellation, we will also be developing and building the next-generation GeoXO Lightning Mapper (LMX) instruments. LMX is a single-channel, near-infrared optical instrument that detects and measures lightning flashes, improving storm analysis and prediction, and aiding in the detection of tornado-producing storms.
Quantum communication exploits quantum properties of light to provide secure, long-distance communication with benefits for military, government and commercial customers.
Lockheed Martin is developing quantum algorithms advancing capabilities for quantum computers, remote sensing and communications. We are field-testing quantum technology with promising increases in both processing speed and information per photon. This technology is leading to systems that use significantly less power, process more information and transmit that information securely at higher data rates.
Cutting-edge technologies like advanced robotics, 3D printing, and light-based manufacturing enhance the quality of space products and services while also reducing cost.
As part of our mission-driven digital transformation, Lockheed Martin is developing digital capabilities to enhance its business operations and product offerings. A few of those technologies include:
- Additive manufacturing or 3D printing improves efficiencies by providing parts with a higher level of detail and greater design opportunities. Lockheed Martin has thousands of 3D printed parts across our spaceflight hardware portfolio. In the future, additive manufacturing has the potential to revolutionize space missions by enabling in-orbit fabrication of replacement parts, tools, and even entire spacecraft components.
- Augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) blends the physical and digital worlds through interactive, 3D holographic representations. We use AR/VR to design, build and test products faster. These advanced visualization technologies reduce our development and production time, improving cost competitiveness and driving faster deliveries for our customers.
- Automated processes and robotics improve productivity, accuracy and consistency throughout our factories. For example, in our solar array manufacturing center, robotic automation has been added to nearly every step like the automated cell loading station that scans every cell for quality and traceability, removing 90% of the touch time.
