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From Earth to Orbit: Singapore’s ‘Next Bound’ Strategy to Develop its Space Sector

  • 12 Mar 2025

Singapore is strategically positioning itself as a high-value contributor to the growing space economy, leveraging its strengths in research and technology, its connectivity and talent. 

Singapore has set out a plan to strengthen its national capabilities and create pathways to participate in the rapidly expanding global space economy. Its national space office, the Office for Space Technology & Industry (OSTIn), has unveiled the ‘Next Bound of Space’ strategy to propel the nation’s space sector forward. Key initiatives include an expanded S$60 million funding boost for the Space Technology Development Programme (STDP) and the launch of the Earth Observation Initiative (EOI). 

Next Bound of Space: A Strategic Vision 

Singapore’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade and Industry, Gan Kim Yong, introduced the ‘Next Bound of Space’ strategy at the opening of the Global Space Technology Convention & Exhibition 2025 on 26 February.  

“We are witnessing a revolution in space development,” noted Mr Gan. “What was once the domain of a few nations and companies is now a new frontier for many countries, businesses, organisations, and individuals.” He highlighted that rapid advancements in manufacturing, propulsion, and launch technologies have significantly reduced costs and broadened access to space. Increasing demand for connectivity, mobility, and AI-driven applications are also unlocking new opportunities for space-based solutions. 

“These developments illustrate not only the democratisation of space technologies but also their substantial benefits across industries, economies, and society,” Mr Gan continued. “The global space economy is projected to grow nearly threefold to US$1.8 trillion by 2035, up from US$630 billion in 2023.” 

Recognising this immense potential, Singapore is including the space domain into its vision for a global innovation and technology hub. 

Three Pillars of the ‘Next Bound of Space’ Strategy: 

Growing Singapore’s Space Ecosystem – Leveraging strengths in space-adjacent industries, research & development, and regulatory frameworks. 

Strengthening International Partnerships – Promoting the peaceful, sustainable, and safe use of space through global collaboration. 

Developing Space Programmes for Strategic Use Cases – Supporting key sectors such as aviation, maritime, and sustainability. 

Image: OSTIn (February 2025)

S$60 Million Boost for Space Technology Development Programme (STDP)

To accelerate innovation, Singapore has committed an additional S$60 million to the STDP over the next two years, supplementing the initial S$150 million fund established in 2022. 

The STDP aims to enhance Singapore’s expertise in satellite communications, remote sensing, and next-generation space technologies. Through three funding archetypes that cater to different aspects of space technology development, the programme also aims to build capabilities within Institutes of Higher Learning (IHLs) and Research Institutions (RIs) while also facilitating the commercialisation of research.

Image: OSTIn (February 2025)

The STDP has already delivered results, driving advancements in Very Low Earth Orbit (VLEO) satellite technologies, space-based robotic manipulators, and satellite-enabled precision agriculture. Future efforts are expected to focus in areas such as compact Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR), optical payloads, VLEO platforms, Earth Observation applications, and space-based Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) for secure communication across continents.

Earth Observation Initiative (EOI): Harnessing Space Data for Sustainability

A second highlight of Singapore’s space strategy is the launch of the Earth Observation Initiative (EOI). A collaborative effort spearheaded by OSTIn, the EOI brings together a consortium of 15 international and regional organisations – including the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs, the World Bank, the World Economic Forum and the Mekong River Commission Secretariat – to harness the power of Earth observation in addressing sustainability and humanitarian challenges across the Asia-Pacific region.

Launch of the Earth Observation Initiative at GSTCE 2025. Photo: AAIS

Earth observation technology is increasingly recognised as a powerful tool for contributing to sustainable development goals, offering a cost-effective approach to monitoring, managing and mobilising resources by providing comprehensive, real-time data. With its near equatorial and Low Earth Orbit satellite capabilities, Singapore is well-placed to support the region with frequent and high-resolution data. 

Leveraging high-resolution data, the EOI aims to tackle challenges in the region such as food and water security, improve disaster and disease monitoring, as well as land and forestry management. Through workshops, forums, and demonstration projects, the initiative aims to translate satellite data into actionable insights, ensuring its applications are scalable, impactful, and policy-driven. 

Positioning for the Next Frontier

The ‘Next Bound of Space’ strategy sets the stage for Singapore to plant its flag and create an impact on the rapidly evolving space economy. As the nation advances its space ambitions, continued investments, strategic partnerships, and support for technological innovation will be key to solidifying its position as a regional hub for space innovation. As Minister Gan highlighted, it is equally crucial to nurture a strong talent pipeline and create more opportunities for the workforce to engage with and contribute to the space industry.

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