In February 2024, the Saudi Space Agency and NorthStar Earth & Space entered a strategic partnership aimed at fostering a robust space ecosystem in the Middle East. This collaboration focuses on enhancing space situational awareness (SSA) and advancing space sustainability, while also laying the groundwork for long-term industry growth in Saudi Arabia. Central to the partnership is the potential establishment of a Centre of Excellence for SSA, alongside joint efforts in satellite manufacturing and the deployment of advanced sensing technologies—including optical, radar, and RF systems. NorthStar’s plans to establish a local presence and engage with Saudi universities and research institutions further underscore the initiative’s commitment to localizing innovation and nurturing a collaborative space ecosystem.

Prerequisites:

• Institutional & political interest and support for utilising SSA, STM, and Space Weather data, technologies, and applications

• Partnerships with established SSA, STM, and Space Weather data providers

• Access to SSA, STM, and Space Weather data, data processing and analysis capabilities

Cost:

• Ballpark: USD 100k–500k

• Includes: mapping of international partners with advanced SSA/STM/space weather programmes, negotiation and signing of MoUs or cooperation agreements, funding of joint research projects and pilot programmes, exchange of researchers and technical staff, joint workshops and capacity-building activities, access to partner data and tools for national use

Timeframe:

• Overall: 12–36 mo

• Phase: partner identification & scoping (3–6 mo), negotiation & agreement (6–9 mo), joint research & pilot projects (12–18 mo), evaluation & follow-up collaborations (6–12 mo)

Pros:

• Timeline Efficiency - Eliminates the need to develop new technology or systems from scratch, enabling rapid technology integration.

• Low-risk - as the technology is already demonstrated and used

• Leveraging Existing Resources - Leverages the strengths of partner nations to improve domestic capabilities in SSA/STM/Space Weather.

• Fostering Collaboration - Fosters  collaborative research and development, leading to innovative solutions.

Considerations:

• Risk of Ineffectiveness - Purchasing a satellite may not enable technology transfer or capacity building and some information will be kept as a black box