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Indonesia launched their new satellite, SATRIA-1 in a bid to provide equal internet access in underserved, remote, and outermost areas (3T). This satellite will facilitate internet services in 50 thousand public facilities at 4 Mbps. This launching marks Indonesia’s commitment to transforming its nation to be accessible in communication.
Additionally, I Gede Wenten, one of the Board of Directors of the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), emphasised that satellite technology, encompassing various fields such as telecommunications, environmental monitoring, scientific research, and more, is set to be a pivotal factor determining a country’s progress in the future. The use and application of satellite technology have rapidly expanded and become widespread in recent decades, significantly impacting various aspects of modern life.
“Satellites hold immense value, not only economically but also in terms of national resilience. The values they bring are substantial, far exceeding the cost of the satellites themselves,” he stated.
According to Wenten, an expert in satellite technology, enhancing proficiency in satellite technology is crucial to advancing a country’s potential in the modern era. Amid the rapid evolution of satellite technology, Indonesia’s National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) plays a central role in propelling this advancement through the Satellite Technology Research Centre. One significant stride is fostering close collaborations with various Ministries, Government Agencies, and educational institutions.
Collaboration with diverse Ministries and Government Agencies is pivotal in facing satellite technology’s challenges and opportunities. In an era where satellites serve as communication tools and environmental monitors, navigation aids, and scientific research platforms, the synergy between government agencies and academia becomes crucial. Such collaborations enable the amalgamation of expertise and resources, leading to significant innovations in satellite technology.
Through innovations like nano-satellites, Indonesia can leverage satellite technology in various fields, including environmental monitoring, communication, scientific research, and more. Broader and more efficient use of satellite technology can offer significant benefits to the country, including improved climate change monitoring, natural resource management, and enhanced communication services for the public.
Given the many benefits associated with mastering satellite technology, Wenten also expressed hopes for the emergence of satellite-related startups and specialised satellite technology schools in Indonesia to meet the nation’s satellite needs.
“We certainly hope that Indonesia will soon have operational satellites,” he expressed.
Regarding advancing research and satellite technology in Indonesia, Robertus Heru Triharjanto, Head of the Aerospace Research and Development Institute (LAPAN) under BRIN, revealed BRIN’s commitment to expanding research collaboration in satellites. He also highlighted the importance of enhancing the competence of researchers.
To achieve this, BRIN supports researchers, offering them opportunities to pursue further studies at the Master’s and Doctoral levels through a degree-by-research scheme. Researchers can avail themselves of these opportunities domestically and internationally, with higher education institutions playing a crucial role in producing competent research professionals in satellite technology.
“With combined efforts from various stakeholders, including BRIN, higher education institutions, and researchers, it is expected that Indonesia will be better equipped to compete globally in the field of satellite research and technology. These initiatives strengthen the vision of unlocking Indonesia’s full potential in the era of satellites and space,” he concluded.
