What does space technology have to do with Singapore’s ERP system and coastline?

“Especially in the city, we are looking at security, safety, sustainability, as well as smart (technology). For example, we use GNSS or GPS to drive an autonomous vehicle. Without this technology it is very hard to get a robot to move autonomously.”

SPACE TECH IN SINGAPORE

Dr Khoo spoke about the role of space in the rise of geospatial applications at the Global Space and Technology Convention (GSTC), held on Wednesday and Thursday in Singapore.

The event brought together more than 800 thought leaders, industry players and investors from more than 40 countries to discuss wide-ranging topics including frontier technology development, global collaboration of space agencies, and space and sustainability agendas.

Ms Lynette Tan, CEO of Singapore Space and Technology, said the convention aimed to facilitate deal flows among countries, businesses and professionals in the “galactic” industry to better understand technological developments, share resources and work towards a common ambition.

“Space is now a cornerstone in the Singapore ecosystem. It is ubiquitous in our everyday life and in our innovation development,” she told CNA938.

“Space is the first place for inspiration … a public incubator where inventions take place. Future jobs in this sector are going to be very demanding, especially in the sophistication of the skills required.”

To attract more talent into the industry, a new Space Internship Programme was launched during the convention with at least 95 openings across space tech companies from now till 2026.

“We are creating opportunities to encourage students to learn about STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) and to be inspired through the space environment,” said Ms Tan.

Transport Minister S Iswaran said during the convention that there has been significant growth in new technologies, businesses and investments in the space sector in recent years.

The global space industry is valued at more than US$400 billion today, and is set to more than double to US$1 trillion by 2030.

More than 60 local and international space companies are based in Singapore, employing about 2,000 professionals and researchers.