In a bold step towards bolstering its connectivity and embracing innovation, the Mongolian government announced on Thursday its plans to collaborate with Elon Musk’s SpaceX to launch the nation’s maiden telecommunications satellite. The satellite, currently under construction by the renowned French company Thales Alenia Space, is poised to revolutionize Mongolia’s disaster management, emergency response capabilities, and significantly enhance its broadband internet access.
This monumental decision underscores Mongolia’s steadfast commitment to nurturing its burgeoning domestic space economy and embracing cutting-edge technological advancements. “Launching our own satellite marks a defining moment for Mongolia’s journey towards becoming a spacefaring nation,” remarked Mongolia’s Minister of Digital Development and Communications, Uchral Nyam-Osor.
The satellite’s multifaceted mission includes bolstering Mongolia’s disaster management and emergency response mechanisms, enhancing broadband internet access nationwide, and providing crucial support for scientific research and education initiatives. This initiative aligns with Mongolia’s broader vision of fostering a thriving domestic space industry and ushering in a digital future driven by innovation and technological prowess.
The talks between Mongolia and SpaceX come on the heels of the Mongolian government granting two licenses to SpaceX last year, enabling the company to operate as an internet service provider using low-orbit satellites. This move is expected to bring high-speed internet connectivity via Starlink to millions of users across the country, with services expected to commence from late February.
Mongolia’s New Recovery Policy and Vision2050, which focus on digital transformation and sustainable development, have played a pivotal role in attracting SpaceX’s investment. “SpaceX’s investment in Mongolia demonstrates the confidence they have in our vision for digital transformation and sustainable development,” highlighted Nyam-Osor.
Starlink, SpaceX’s satellite communications service, boasts a rapidly expanding network of over 3,500 satellites in low-Earth orbit, capable of providing connectivity even in the most remote areas. Mongolia’s abundant reserves of rare earth minerals and copper, crucial components in the electric vehicle supply chain, further highlight the strategic importance of enhancing the country’s digital infrastructure and connectivity.
As Mongolia embarks on this ambitious journey towards space exploration and technological advancement, its collaboration with SpaceX heralds a new era of progress and innovation for the nation, promising far-reaching benefits for its citizens and the broader global community.
(Source: Reuters | ET Telecom | Capacity Media)
