SABIA-Mar (Argentine-Brazilian Satellites for Environmental Information of the Sea) is a planned dual satellite mission jointly operated by the Argentine and Brazilian Space Agencies, CONAE and AEB. The launch is planned for 2025. The two Sun-synchronous satellites will obtain time-based data of the oceanic biosphere and its response to human activity, as well as to help researchers develop marine prediction and management systems.

Prerequisites:

• Capability to process EO data

• Procurement pathway

• Partner support as needed

• Data policy (open by default preferred)

• Cybersecurity, data protection, and continuity planning

• Identification of common needs with partners, identification of capabilities of different partners,

• Spectrum policy & coordination with telecom regulator; ITU procedures where applicable

• Lead agency & budget

Cost:

• Ballpark: USD 20-300M (program setup; varies widely, shared among partners)

• Includes: feasibility and scoping studies, intergovernmental agreements and governance setup, satellite procurement and payload definition, launch and insurance, shared ground segment development, data-sharing and access systems, training and joint operations

Timeframe:

• Overall: 12–24 months

• Phase: partnership agreements & procurement contract (3–6 mo), manufacturing, integration & testing (6-12 mo),launch & commissioning (3–6 mo)

Pros:

• Leveraging Open Resources - Partnerships may enable access to EO capabilities at a lower cost.

• Driving Cooperation - Space projects may foster international collaboration.

Considerations:

• Dependency - Partnerships may require reliance on external providers.

• Security - Partnerships may introduce potential privacy and security concerns.