The 2020s have marked the beginning of a new era in spaceflight.
The technology required for large satellite constellations has quickly become more reliable and compact. As a result, the last two years have seen an enormous increase in the number of commercial satellites launched to near-Earth space, with the vast majority being smaller satellites weighing between 100 - 1000 kg.
Many of these constellations are launched to provide communication services around the globe. They have great benefits, but will pose a challenge to long-term sustainability.