Perspectives on Earth Observation: GSaaS in Mauritius

Abstract (English)

Discussions of the new space economy often focus on the charismatic private launch sector, crewed missions, and astro-utopian visions of space settlement (Tutton, 2021). However, the majority of contemporary space activity consists of the more mundane “space-for-Earth” sector, a loose grouping which includes Earth observation, remote sensing, and other satellite-based services (Weinzierl, 2018). Even more overlooked are the terrestrial infrastructures required to support these enterprises which continue to proliferate as the space sector grows—one such infrastructures are the globe-spanning Ground Station as a Service networks currently being developed at sites around the world.

Using the example of a specific GSaaS ground station in the Republic of Mauritius as an entry point, this paper details the complex array of actors folded into the backend of the Earth Observation economy as well as the varied perspectives each brings to its production and future. It begins by delineating the geospatial and economic conditions which make GSaaS a burgeoning business model and those which make Mauritius an attractive site to host such ground station operations. Then, drawing on fieldwork conducted in the spring of 2023, it unpacks the process that emerged when an Italian GSaaS provider ventured to place a station on the island. Specifically, it discusses the collaborative arrangements set up between the provider and local Mauritian actors in the government and private sector and how the multiple groups involved attempt to square their own futures within a larger economy distributed around the world tied to satellites orbiting above.