TransportBT: Singapore’s surprising and thriving space industry

In the latest episode of TransportBT by The Business Times, host Derryn Wong dives deep into Singapore’s space industry with Jonathan Hung, executive director, Office for Space Technology & Industry (OSTIn). The conversation delivers great insight into the current state and future potential of Singapore’s space sector. 

Singapore’s long history in space 

Contrary to popular belief, Singapore’s involvement in space activities dates back several decades. Providing Wong with a quick history lesson, Hung points out that Singapore’s first satellite ground station was established in Sentosa in 1971, and our first satellite was launched in 1998.

Today OSTIn plays a pivotal role as Singapore’s lead front for space activities. Hung explains that the office, having grown and evolved into its current form, is now divided into three main pillars - technology, industry, and international relations. OSTIn oversees satellite missions and supports a vibrant ecosystem of over 70 companies - fostering global partnerships.

Key technologies and innovations

Singapore excels in satellite subsystems, with significant investments in electronic stacks, hardware, and software. The country’s strength in miniaturisation has enabled the development of smaller, more efficient satellites, crucial in the era of space democratisation spearheaded by entities like SpaceX.

Wong and Hung then turn their conversation to how space technologies directly benefit other industries in Singapore. For example, satellite communications which enhance maritime and aviation efficiencies - critical for Singapore’s status as a global hub. 

Singapore’s future in space exploration

While Singapore may not have its own launch site due to land constraints, Hung does muse on the potential for the country to participate actively in space exploration missions. He believes that collaborations with other nations and companies will be key, particularly in areas like in-space robotics and advanced satellite communications.

However for now, it is more earth based endeavours with the Earth Observation Initiative (EOI) which aims to tackle sustainability and humanitarian challenges through remote sensing satellite technology. This initiative underscores Singapore’s commitment to using space technology for the greater good.

Listen now to the conversation between Derryn Wong and Jonathan Hung which provides a comprehensive overview of Singapore’s current achievements and future aspirations in the space sector.

TransportBT is a podcast of BT Correspondents. Look out for the next episode featuring senior correspondent Leslie Yee on property matters. And if you have any thoughts or questions, feel free to reach out to us at btpodcasts@sph.com.sg.

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Written and hosted by: Derryn Wong (derrynwong@sph.com.sg)

With Jonathan Hung, executive director, Office for Space Technology & Industry

Edited by: Emily Liu & Claressa Monteiro

Produced by: Derryn Wong, Emily Liu & Chai Pei Chieh

A podcast by BT Podcasts, The Business Times, SPH Media

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