Report Overview:
Sun sensors are critical navigational instruments used in spacecraft for solar position detection. These components play a vital role in attitude control, solar array alignment, and spacecraft recovery systems. The technology comes in three primary variants: coarse analog sensors (holding 48% market share), fine analog sensors, and digital sensors - each offering different precision levels for sun angle measurement through continuous or discrete outputs.
The market growth is primarily driven by increasing satellite deployments, particularly in low earth orbit (LEO) applications which dominate 62% of usage. While North America leads consumption with 73% market share due to strong government space programs, Asia-Pacific is emerging as a high-growth region with new space agencies entering the sector. Recent developments include miniaturized MEMS-based sun sensors from companies like Solar MEMS Technologies, enabling cost-effective solutions for small satellite constellations that are transforming the industry landscape.
Market Value:
Global Sun Sensor market size was valued at USD 30.5 million in 2024. The market is projected to grow from USD 34.2 million in 2025 to USD 67.7 million by 2032, exhibiting a CAGR of 12.3% during the forecast period. CAGR of 12.3%
(2024 – 2032)
By Applications:
LEO (Low Earth Orbit)
GEO (Geostationary Earth Orbit)
MEO (Medium Earth Orbit)
Deep Space Missions
By Types:
• Coarse Analog Sun Sensors
• Fine Analog Sun Sensors
• Digital Sun Sensors
• Others
Key players include:
• NewSpace Systems (South Africa)
• Bradford Space (U.S.)
• Adcole Space (U.S.)
• GOMSpace (Denmark)
• Space Micro (U.S.)
• CubeSpace (South Africa)
• Antrix Corporation (India)
