According to Euroconsult's latest report, Trends and Prospects for Emerging Space Programs, 24 countries are identified as emerging space programs (ESPs) in 2015 having launched a total of 69 satellites in the last 20 years.

As satellite technology has become more accessible and affordable, the number of countries investing in their first satellite system has increased dramatically. 2015 set an all-time record with nine satellites launched, confirming the dynamism of this market.

By 2025, we estimate that the number of emerging space programs will increase to 47 countries around the world. This includes 23 newcomers who will have committed their first investment in space between 2016 and 2025.

Over 130 satellites are forecast to be launched in the next 10 years, nearly double that of the last decade. The total value of these satellites should more than double at nearly $12 billion, versus more than $5 billion during 2006-2015.

New to this edition, Euroconsult has developed an index which aims to model the probability for a new country to invest in a satellite system. The ESP Index is based on a three part process consisting of data gathering, analysis, and ranking of 148 countries.

The index is based on factors deemed to be relevant to evaluating the start of a space program. The relevance of the ESP Index was verified with a "reality check" by reviewing the score of countries that have already launched or ordered a satellite.

"Based on their score in Euroconsult's ESP Index, some countries show a high profile regarding potential investment in satellite solutions and acquisition; four countries show very high potential as they rank in the top 20 countries while not having yet procured a satellite," said Steve Bochinger, COO of Euroconsult and editor of the report.

"Five other countries rank between 20th and 30th position."

Another innovative feature of the report is a targeted survey completed with a selection of countries, part of the 24 countries identified as "already active" ESPs.

The questionnaire was aimed to collect primary information on the countries' experience in implementing a satellite program, their strategy, benefits and lessons learned. The survey results, along with the collection of public information and our own expert knowledge, are combined to establish Euroconsult's benchmark of emerging space programs.