Nanyang Technological University, Singapore (NTU Singapore) is launching three new space projects under Singapore’s Space Technology Development Programme (STDP), marking a major step in accelerating the commercialisation of space technologies developed in Singapore.

Among the projects is a satellite that will carry edge-computing artificial intelligence capable of processing data directly in space.

Images captured by the satellite will be analysed on board using small AI models and an edge engine, reducing the need to transmit large volumes of raw data back to Earth and enabling faster, more intelligent decision-making in orbit.

The project, led by scientists from NTU’s Satellite Research Centre (SaRC), will be integrated into a nanosatellite built by space technology firm Satoro Space.

The 3U (30cm x 10cm x 10cm) nanosatellite will also demonstrate and test next-generation perovskite solar cells in space. These lightweight solar panels are being developed by scientists from NTU’s School of Electrical and Electronic Engineering, NTU’s School of Materials Science and Engineering, and local technology start-up Singfilm.

The three new projects are among the first supported under the Space Access Programme (SAP), which is part of the STDP by the Office for Space Technology & Industry, Singapore (OSTIn), targeting annual launches in 2026, 2027, and 2028.

The national programme is designed to give local researchers and companies faster and more cost-effective access to space for in-orbit testing and validation.

Dean of the NTU College of Engineering, Professor Warren Chan, said the new Space Access Programme marks a significant step for Singapore’s space ecosystem and represents a new phase for NTU, the birthplace of Singapore’s satellite and space education programme.

“This new programme reflects how space technologies are evolving towards faster development and smarter operations,” Prof Chan said. “With over two decades of experience, NTU has built a strong track record in co-developing and deploying satellite technologies rapidly and cost-effectively.”

Chairman of SATORO SPACE, Mr Maverick Shih, said, “We are very happy to be a part of NTU’s joint project, as the cooperation between NTU’s Satellite Research Centre and SATORO not only allows us to build up the proven and reliable CubeSat solutions, but also implement the project locally with SaRC in Singapore, which helps Singapore research institutes to develop cutting-edge space technology rapidly”.

Second SAP: Propulsion and Atomic Oxygen Detector

In addition to the AI-enabled satellite, the second SAP project will deploy another nanosatellite designed to make manoeuvres in space

The new 16U (measuring 40cm x 30cm x 30cm) nanosatellite weighs up to 30 kilogrammes and will house a MUlti-Stage Ignition Compact (MUSIC) engine, a unique propulsion system developed by NTU spin-off Aliena.

The engine works by electrically ionising a gas propellant and accelerating the ions using carefully controlled electric and magnetic fields, producing a steady and efficient thrust that can be used by satellites for orbit raising or lowering

“Aliena’s participation in the Space Access Programme reflects our commitment to delivering versatile propulsion systems across a wide range of satellite platforms,” said Dr Lim Jian Wei, Mark, Co-founder and CEO of Aliena.

“With the growing number of satellites in low Earth orbit, advanced in-orbit mobility is no longer optional. It opens up new mission possibilities that are critical for emerging space applications and an absolute necessity for satellite constellations to operate effectively and sustainably.”

The satellite will also house an Atomic Oxygen Detector developed by NTU Temasek Laboratories, which will study the durability of advanced materials to withstand atomic oxygen, which is a highly corrosive gas that could damage satellite components in Very Low Earth Orbit.

Third SAP: Optical Imaging

The third project will test a Singapore-developed electro-optical imaging payload (LEOCAM) on the International Space Station, providing in-orbit validation for high-resolution Earth observation technologies.

Locally designed with a unique triple-mirror set-up, LEOCAM is capable of delivering high-resolution images, as each pixel can capture finer ground details, such as objects a metre wide or larger.

Dr Phua Poh Boon, Chief Technology Officer of LightHaus Photonics, said: “We are excited to test our optical imaging payload on the International Space Station, which will be a key milestone for LightHaus as the first Singaporean company to build a space-based optical system.”

Together, the projects reflect a broader shift in the global space sector towards smaller, more agile satellites that can be developed, launched and tested more quickly than traditional large-scale missions.

Professor Warren Chan added that NTU’s established strengths in artificial intelligence and space technologies position the University well to spearhead the development of edge-computing AI in space, where data can be processed directly on-board satellites.

“Developing AI capabilities in orbit reduces reliance on ground-based processing and enables quicker, more intelligent decision-making,” Prof Chan said. “This is a strategic advantage for Singapore as it builds a more agile and competitive space ecosystem, and it will help our partners bring innovations to market sooner.”

The three new Space Access Programme projects are scheduled to begin this year and will run for the next 3 years, further strengthening NTU’s role in advancing Singapore’s space capabilities and growing its commercial space ecosystem.

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