Southeast Asia can tap growing space economy through data, not rocket launches: Ex-US Space Force architect

OPPORTUNITIES AND RISKS AHEAD

Rather than competing directly in satellite launches, Southeast Asia can focus on managing and applying the growing volumes of space-derived data, said experts.

This includes areas such as agriculture, climate monitoring, wildlife protection and urban planning.

As more satellites are deployed, the volume of data generated is expected to increase dramatically, creating demand for infrastructure to store, secure and analyse it, said Crosier.

“Competition doesn’t necessarily have to mean competing to build more satellites and launch more rockets than other nations are doing.”

As space data continues to proliferate, “the organisations that can figure out how to harness that infrastructure are the organisations that will win in this new space economy”, he added.

At the same time, the rapid increase in satellites poses new challenges.

The number of satellites in orbit could rise from about 10,000 today to more than 50,000 within the next decade, raising concerns about congestion and collision risks.

“We talk a lot about the sustainability of life here on earth, but if we’re going to sustain our capability to operate in space, we need improved space traffic management and collision avoidance capabilities,” Crosier said.

“It’s an opportunity for companies to fill the gap, and organisations to fill the gap to make sure we’re providing that sustainment.”