Southeast Asia's space ambitions are often associated with rocket launches and satellite launches, but retired Major-General Clinton Crosier, a former architect of the United States Space Force, argues that the region can gain a competitive edge by focusing on data. In an interview with CNA's Asia First, Crosier emphasized the potential for Southeast Asia to capitalize on the growing space economy by harnessing space data, rather than competing in rocket launches.
Crosier, now CEO of DeltaV Strategies, highlights the region's strategic advantage in benefiting from the surge in satellite data as the global space economy evolves. He believes that the challenge lies not just in innovation but in translating these advancements into economic growth. With the increasing adoption of earth observation data, such as satellite imagery, Southeast Asia could contribute an additional $100 billion to its GDP by 2030, according to a Deloitte report.
This shift from exploration to economic value is significant. Space technology is no longer just about exploration but has become a critical component of infrastructure, supporting sectors like communications, transport, and climate resilience. Crosier points out that the establishment of the US Space Force in 2019 was a response to the threats to on-orbit space capabilities, but the primary opportunity lies in translating these capabilities into commercial value.
Instead of competing in satellite launches, Southeast Asia can focus on managing and applying the vast amounts of space-derived data. This includes sectors like agriculture, climate monitoring, wildlife protection, and urban planning. As the number of satellites in orbit increases, so does the volume of data, creating a demand for infrastructure to store, secure, and analyze this data. Crosier suggests that the key to success in the new space economy is for organizations to harness this infrastructure effectively.
However, the rapid growth of satellites also presents challenges. The number of satellites in orbit could reach 50,000 within a decade, raising concerns about congestion and collision risks. Crosier emphasizes the need for improved space traffic management and collision avoidance capabilities to sustain our ability to operate in space. This presents an opportunity for companies and organizations to fill the gap and ensure the sustainability of space operations.
In conclusion, Clinton Crosier's perspective highlights the importance of data-driven approaches in Southeast Asia's space endeavors. By focusing on managing and applying space data, the region can unlock significant economic opportunities while addressing the challenges posed by the increasing complexity of space operations.
