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Space technology in Thailand has been growing steadily, with the Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency (GISTDA) being the space agency in the country, located in Bangkok. Thailand’s space programme began in 1996, with the first Thai micro-satellite, THAIPAT-1, successfully launched in 1997. Since then, the country has made significant progress in various areas, including remote sensing, satellite technology, and space science education.
In 2023, Thailand launched the THEOS-2 satellite. This satellite has become paramount in Thailand’s space endeavours, symbolising the nation’s technological advancement and ambitions in the cosmos. The THEOS-2 represents the country’s quest to unlock space’s potential for the nation’s betterment.
The THEOS-2 has achieved orbit, initiating a global exploration mission. The launch of THEOS-2 is not merely a technological feat but a testament to Thailand’s dedication to utilising science, technology, and innovation for the greater good.
In advancing Thailand’s capabilities in space technology, Mr Phumtham Wechayachai, Deputy Prime Minister and Chairman of the Space Policy Committee chaired the National Space Policy Committee No. 1/2023 meeting at the Government House in Bangkok. The meeting focused on crucial discussions and decisions on implementing the National Communications Satellite Operations Policy and guidelines for managing communication satellite channels for public services and government benefits.
Special Professor Wisit Wisitsaratha, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society, who also serves as the Director and Secretary of the National Space Policy Committee, provided insights into the outcomes of the meeting. The committee collectively considered proposals for the telecommunications company to take on the primary responsibility of managing satellite channels dedicated to providing public services and government benefits.
Additionally, the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society (DE) coordinated operations in collaboration with the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC), NT, and other relevant government agencies, overseeing the allocation and management of communication satellite channels.
The meeting saw the approval, in principle, of the policy and operational plan for space traffic surveillance and management. This included considerations related to tax exemptions for satellite imagery, products, and services received from the Development Survey Satellite System Project (Theos 2). The tax exemptions are intended to support security missions and enhance the capabilities of government agencies.
To foster international cooperation in space affairs, the committee agreed to establish a space propulsion subcommittee between Thailand and the People’s Republic of China. Furthermore, they endorsed the Artemis Accord (MOU) signing between the United States and Thailand. The Artemis Accord is designed to express the commitment of both nations to adhere to principles and practices in the exploration of the moon, Mars, and asteroids.
It emphasises safety, transparency, peaceful goals, and compliance with international space treaties. The Office of Space and Geo-Informatics Technology Development (GISTDA) will be central in coordinating and considering projects under the Artemis Programme.
Mr Phuchapong Nodthaisong, Secretary-General of the National Digital Economy and Society Committee and Assistant Secretary of the National Space Policy Committee highlighted additional critical decisions made during the meeting. This included the approval of essential subcommittees such as the Subcommittee for Driving National Space Policy and Master Plan, the Subcommittee on Driving the Creation of the Country’s Space Economy, the Subcommittee on the Development of Education and the National Space Manpower Subcommittee. These subcommittees will be pivotal in monitoring and advancing various aspects of Thailand’s space initiatives.
The meeting also addressed important issues, including preparing the (draft) Space Affairs Act B.E. and the (draft) National Space Master Plan 2023-2037. It delved into the status of space affairs in Thailand, the operation of the Domestic Communication Satellite Project post the expiration of the Domestic Communications Satellite Operation Contract, and the auction results for granting rights to use satellite orbits conducted by the NBTC Office.
Further, the committee also acknowledged the report on the study of the strategy to promote Thailand’s modern space economic ecosystem (New Space Economy), conducted by the National Digital Economy and Society Commission (NCDC).
Thailand’s commitment to advancing its space capabilities reflects a strategic embrace of digital technologies, fostering domestic and international collaboration. The decisions made in this meeting pave the way for a more robust and comprehensive approach to space exploration, technology, and economic development in the future.
