Small Steps Towards a Big Future

The development of the Asia Pacific region through the use of satellite technology was placed high on the agenda at the 2009 APSCC conference in Kuala Lumpur this week. For Malaysia in particular, there is a shift into a new era of development that is enabling the country to use their own space programmes to reach out to the rest of the world and compete in the global communications marketplace.

For developing countries in Asia-Pacific, the quest to move into the world of satellite communications makes sense. Many of the Asia-Pacific population is located in more remote, rural areas that are cut-off from the communications benefits that those living in towns and cities enjoy. Satellite gives them the opportunity to integrate these communities, to give opportunities, education, healthcare and ultimately, wealth.

Developments in the technology have drawn the attention of countries like Malaysia to the benefits of small satellites that can enable them to embrace space technology fully, and to give independence. Building a large satellite carries a large risk. It involves huge investment that, at this point in time especially, is not easy to secure. Large satellites also involve up to three years of development and manufacture, plus expensive launch costs and greater risk. For developing countries that have not yet had the opportunity to build up experience of satellite development, the commissioning of small satellites can go a long way to reduce overall expenditure, reduce development time and personnel costs and can use a smaller launch vehicle.

Perhaps the most important aspect of building on a foundation of small satellites lies in the incremental build-up of know-how that can be garnered - there is no better way to acquire experience. The development of these smaller satellites plus the identification of the many applications that can be satisfied by satellite technology, and development of local infrastructure and local space industry, can help a region to prosper.

For Malaysia, the future strategy revolves around capacity building through the gradual building of knowledge though development of small satellite programmes and the use of Near Equitorial Earth Orbit. With current demand driven by business, the Malaysians are setting themselves a target of 2020 to firmly establish space technology in the country’s psyche and to see a contribution of 3-5 percent of national GDP from the local space industry.

Asia-Pacific is faring well through what has been a tough economic time and offers huge potential for the larger satellite operators and service providers. However, that said, these countries are also developing their own capabilities in space that will afford them a great range of opportunities and security for the future. Asia-Pacific countries are working hard to put themselves on the space industry map and by starting small, they can guarantee a strong foundation that will take them forward into the future.

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