Thailand's Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency (GISTDA) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Perigee Aerospace, a South Korean space startup developing launch vehicles in 2024. This agreement promises cooperation to strengthen Thailand's space infrastructure capabilities.

Prerequisites:

• Institutional & political interest and support for access to space

• Technical and engineering capabilities for operation of launchsite

• Ground infrastructure (engine test stands, labs, propellant facilities, AIT facilities, clean rooms, etc.)

• Suitable space for launches, ideally a coastal or desert location with clear range over uninhabited areas and testing and range facilities (or agreements to use partner facilities)

• Clear regulatory framework for launch licensing, safety, and liability

• Export-control compliance, insurance, and mission assurance processes

• Partnerships with experienced launch providers 

• Cybersecurity, data protection, and continuity planning

Cost: N/A

Lite partnerships such as joint R&D, co-funded prototypes

• Ballpark: USD 10M–100M

• Includes: partnership agreements and PPP frameworks, joint technology development (propulsion, avionics, materials), co-funded prototype rockets, shared test facilities, training and workforce exchanges

Full launcher co-development

• Ballpark: USD 100M–500M

• Includes: co-development of full small-satellite launch vehicle, shared investment in AIT (assembly, integration & testing facilities, engine test stands, launch pad construction or adaptation, mission control systems, co-marketing of launch services

Timeframe:

Lite partnerships

• Overall: 24–48 mo

• Phase: partnership scoping & agreements (6–12 mo), joint R&D and prototyping (12–24 mo), subscale launches & testing (12 mo)

Full launcher co-development

• Overall: 60–120 mo

• Phase: feasibility & design (12–18 mo), infrastructure build (12–24 mo), full vehicle development & qualification (24–36 mo), first commercial launches (12–24 mo)

Pros:

• Technological Advancement - Accelerate the development of domestic aerospace technologies.

• Economic Growth - Stimulate the economy through job creation and the growth of high-tech industries.

• Strategic Autonomy - Reduce reliance on foreign launch services, enhancing national security and independence.

International Standing - Elevate Thailand's position in the global space community.

Considerations:

• High Initial Investment - Capabilities require significant upfront costs with long-term return on investment.

• Technical Challenges - Developing reliable launch systems involves complex engineering and potential risks.

• Market Competition - Competing with established international launch providers may be challenging.