Satellite Communications & Sensing

A*STAR I²R aim to develop translational research capabilities and build domain expertise in the satellite communications and sensing, particularly for 5G/6G Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTN), Aviation and Maritime sectors. We build capabilities and develop niche and innovative technologies for satellite communications, sensing and services for the game-changing small-satellites industry in the emerging New Space Economy.

As a key partner to EDB's Office for Space Technology and Industry (OSTIn) in building Singapore's New Space eco-system and industry, we will strive to collaborate with the industries, universities and government agencies to develop cutting edge technologies in the area of satellite communication payload & ground terminals, space-based VHF communication system for aviation, VHF Data Exchange System (VDES) for maritime, millimetre-wave phased array antenna, RF & software-Defined Radio (SDR) system, and satellite-based remote sensing technologies.

Our current focus areas are:

To push technology frontier towards cost effective and modular phased array antenna for achieving high scan resolution, low power consumption, scalable architecture, built-in self-calibration, shared aperture, and multibeam steering capabilities for satellite communication payloads and Satcom-On-The-move (SOTM) terminals.

Millimetre-wave phased array antenna

To develop novel space-based VHF communication technology for overcoming the geographical limitations and extending range coverage of voice/data communication, and therefore enabling more efficient air traffic management in the assigned Flight Information Region (FIR), with the aid of ADS-B for real-time flight tracking and situation awareness.

Space-based VHF communication for aviation

To develop both terrestrial and space-based VDES solutions, including the mobile station, terrestrial base station and satellite payload, for serving the needs of improving maritime safety, e-navigation, vessels’ situational awareness, port & shipping operational efficiency and decarbonisation.