The Excellence Center for Space Technology and Research (Ecstar) of Thailand has entered into a significant partnership with In-Space Missions Limited from the United Kingdom, aiming to enhance Thailand’s space research and satellite development. The collaboration was formalized through a memorandum of understanding (MoU) focused on satellite and space affairs.
Under the guidance of Ecstar, part of King Mongkut’s Institute of Technology Ladkrabang’s International Academy of Aviation Industry (IAAI), this partnership marks a step forward in aligning Thailand’s space capabilities with global standards. Ecstar Chairman Col Settapong Malisuwan said the MoU will greatly contribute to the development of Thailand’s space sector.
A key project under discussion between Ecstar and In-Space Missions Limited is the development of a satellite rideshare mission, dubbed Faraday Dragon, within the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). This initiative is expected to position Thailand alongside other nations in satellite construction.
The collaboration is set to commence in March next year, with goals to jointly manufacture a satellite within two years and deploy it for use in three years. Col Settapong also highlighted the center’s ambitions to develop Thailand’s first low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellites and to expand international cooperation with other space agencies. (NNT)
