It was reported that Singapore's Nanyang Technological University (NTU) has launched three new space projects under Singapore's Space Technology Development Program, a national initiative to accelerate the commercialization of space technologies. The projects are among the first supported under this program, which targets annual launches in 2026, 2027 and 2028 to give local researchers and companies faster, more cost effective access to space for in orbit testing and validation.
One of the new projects will see scientists from NTU's Satellite Research Centre integrate an edge computing artificial intelligence payload into a nanosatellite built by space technology firm Satoro Space. The 3U nanosatellite, measuring 30 centimeters by 10 centimeters by 10 centimeters, will process images directly on board using small AI models and an edge engine. The same satellite will also test next generation perovskite solar cells in space. These lightweight solar panels are being developed by researchers from NTU's School of Electrical and Electronic Engineering, School of Materials Science and Engineering, and local technology start up Singfilm. In orbit demonstration of the devices will provide critical data on their performance and durability in the harsh space environment.
Dean of the NTU College of Engineering, Professor Warren Chan, said that the Space Access Program marks a significant step for Singapore's growing space ecosystem and represents a new phase for NTU, which pioneered the country's satellite and space education program. He noted that space technologies are moving towards faster development cycles and smarter operations, and highlighted NTU's two decades of experience in co developing and deploying satellite technologies rapidly and cost effectively.
Chairman of Satoro Space, Mr. Maverick Shih, said the joint project allows the company to build proven and reliable CubeSat solutions while working locally with the Satellite Research Centre in Singapore. He added that the collaboration will help Singapore research institutes to develop cutting edge space technology rapidly by combining academic expertise with commercial satellite platforms.
Under the second Space Access Program project, NTU and its partners will deploy a larger nanosatellite designed for in orbit maneuvers. The third project will validate a Singapore-developed electro optical imaging payload, known as LEOCAM, on the International Space Station.
Together, the three Space Access Program projects underscore a wider shift in the global space sector towards smaller, more agile satellites that can be built, launched and tested faster than traditional large spacecraft. The three projects are scheduled to start this year and will run for the next three years.
