How we're collaborating with GISTDA on next-generation earth observation capabilities

Collaboration with industry – both nationally and internationally – has long been a key component of our space strategy. We believe the biggest step change in space will come through a collaborative mindset, with governments and organisations working together to take space technologies and their potential applications to the next level.

One example of this is our Azalea programme. We’re collaborating with and investing in the space ecosystem to develop the cluster of multi-sensor (RF & SAR) satellites – such as through our investment in Finnish company ICEYE – with a shared mission to deliver a solution with unique Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities.

Another key example is our continuing collaboration with Thailand’s Space Agency and Space Research organisation, GISTDA (Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency), to support the development of Thailand’s next generation of earth observation capabilities.

We have worked closely with GISTDA and the UK Space Agency to aid government-to-government cooperation. And, in 2024, after participating in our Phase 1 UK Space Agency International Bilateral Fund programme, GISTDA successfully secured funding for the development of its payload data handling unit (PDHU) which intends to fly on Faraday Dragon, the world’s first UK led multi-agency Asia-Pacific satellite rideshare mission. The flight of the PDHU on Faraday Dragon would enable the required validation of a wholly designed and developed satellite subsystem from Thailand.

Building success through collaboration

Faraday Dragon is a 250kg class satellite rideshare platform that will be designed, assembled, integrated and tested in the UK by BAE Systems. Due to launch in 2028 and with a minimum mission lifespan of five-years, it will accommodate a range of complimentary and exciting payloads from the Asia-Pacific space agencies and their respective stakeholders from government, academia and the private sector – providing opportunities for bilateral and multilateral collaboration, human capital development, data sharing, and mission insights.

During 2023 and 2024, we also worked with GISTDA on its development of the mission study for Thailand’s THEOS-3 next generation earth observation satellite, the next key milestone in the Thai National Space Programme which aims to support and grow the Thai space economy.

THEOS-3 is an earth observation satellite and will be Thailand’s first in-country satellite development, designed and engineered by GISTDA and assembled at GISTDA's Assembly Integration and Testing Center in the Space Krenovation Park, Chonburi. THEOS-3 which will support a range of applications including agriculture, pollution, natural resources, and disaster prevention.

Speaking about the collaboration between GISTDA and BAE Systems Digital Intelligence, GISTDA’s Executive Director, Dr Pakorn Apaphant, said: “The collaborative approach adopted by GISTDA has been a pivotal factor in its current successes. To drive Thailand’s national space economy, GISTDA is working from multiple perspectives, recognising the essential need to synergise with both local and international partners to amplify the impact for all involved. A prime example of this collaboration is the UK Space Agency’s International Bilateral Fund, which unites trusted partners across Asia, with BAE Systems serving as a core integrator in this impactful initiative. Through this project, participants are able to exchange knowledge, share best practices, and progress together toward common objectives.

“GISTDA has leveraged the National Satellite Assembly, Integration and Test facilities and the satellite manufacturing partners to bring the best to the project success. As strategic partners, GISTDA and BAE Systems are poised to address upcoming challenges, with a shared commitment to advancing Thailand’s space economy in the near future."