Perigee Aerospace, a South Korean space startup behind the small launch vehicles 'Blue Whale 1', agreed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Thailand's Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency (GISTDA). Other provisions agreed on the deal were to enhance Thailand's capacity in space infrastructure.
The MoU has been signed in Bangkok by CEO Shin Dong-yoon of Perigee Aerospace, and the Director of GISTDA, Pakorn Apaphan. The agreement was announced after Perigee Aerospace's participation at Thailand Space Week 2024, where the company unveiled its space technologies.
The announcement on November 12 proved that the MoU can cooperate together on a number of key areas such as developing space infrastructure in Thailand in cooperation, launching its satellites services, advancing satellite and propulsion system technology, and space education initiatives.
Thailand has been making concerted efforts to bolster its space industry, recognizing it as a future core industry. The government has been providing substantial support to foster space technology development. Recently, a joint feasibility study for the establishment of a space launch site was conducted in Thailand with the Korea Aerospace Research Institute, highlighting the country's commitment to becoming a significant player in the space sector.
Shin Dong-yoon emphasized the strategic importance of the deal. "Thailand's peculiar geographical conditions stimulate a strong demand for satellite technology, which breeds much prospect for business expansion in this field", he added. He also appeared confident that the partnership would expedite the entry of Perigee Aerospace into the Southeast Asian market.
It is located in a vulnerable disaster region and therefore, Thailand requires advanced satellite systems capable of monitoring and reacting to the disaster. This requirement represents an excellent opportunity for the company to enhance its representation in Thailand in addition to contributing toward the growth of space capabilities in that country.
