Can you tell us when the EDB began supporting space operations in Singapore and what your vision is for the Singapore Space industry?

The Singapore Economic Development Board established the Office for Space Technology and Industry (OSTIN) in 2013 with the goal of pursuing “New Space” opportunities. Our primary focus is on small satellite applications and technologies, and we have been working to build up the small satellite capabilities of our public research institutions through competitive grant calls and small satellite missions. We encourage public-private collaborations to help translate research into commercial products and services. Our long-term vision is to create a vibrant Space ecosystem for Singapore where companies can tap into our deep engineering and research capabilities to innovate and export “New Space” products and services.

Can you provide a brief background on Singapore’s space industry?

Singapore already has a small but vibrant satellite industry, with over 30 companies creating high value jobs for more than 1,000 professionals engaged in a wide range of activities, from the design and manufacture of space components to the provision of satellite-based services. Since 2011, Singapore-based entities have launched 11 small satellites, and major satellite operators such as SES, Inmarsat, Intelsat, and Eutelsat, as well as startups like Astroscale, Spire, and Microspace, all have a significant presence in Singapore. The industry has grown rapidly, with a community of over 150 researchers working on satellites, up from 20 researchers in 2011. Over the next five years, the industry will continue to employ an additional 300 professionals across the entire satellite value chain, from engineering to service provision.

With an increased focus on micro- and nano-satellites in the country, what niche space roles is Singapore trying to develop competencies in?

We seek to develop a technology edge in New Space engineering through investments in R&D that improve the miniaturization of components while simultaneously improving performance. As more small satellite constellations come online, we are also exploring building up capabilities that enable richer features and functionalities, such as propulsion technology, constellation management algorithms, and more. In Dec 2015, six small satellites built by Singapore-based entities were launched into space, a testament to Singapore’s indigenous small satellite engineering capabilities. This positions Singapore well to capture the growth of the New Space economy, with the burgeoning of new product ideas and markets for satellite-enabled applications. With our strengths in electronics and ICT, we believe Singapore can play a substantial role in this new growth phase of the satellite industry.

Is Singapore developing key international partnerships within the space industry? If so, with who and with which purpose?

One of OSTIN’s core missions is to forge collaborations between Singapore and the international space community on space initiatives. In 2015, EDB signed a Letter of Intent with French space agency CNES to explore possible areas of collaboration in satellite component development. In June 2016, EDB also signed a MoU with major satellite operator SES to explore next-generation satellite technologies, such as the design, prototyping, and production of technologies for satellite mobility applications in the aeronautical, automotive, and maritime sectors. Beyond these partnerships, EDB also looks forward to future engagements with members of the international space community for mutual growth and development.