The National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) has officially set an ambitious target to launch the earth observation satellite named Nusantara Earth Observation-1 (NEO-1) in January 2027. This project is projected to be an important milestone for Indonesia as it is the first observation satellite developed through comprehensive, or end-to-end, mastery of domestic technology.
The Head of BRIN, Arif Satria, conveyed this plan during the 50 Years of Indonesian Satellites commemoration event in Jakarta. According to him, the development of NEO-1 is not merely an effort to own a satellite, but a strategic step to master the space technology chain, which includes mission design, integration, testing, and independent operation of the satellite by the nation's youth.
The satellite imagery data generated by NEO-1 will become a vital asset for various strategic national sectors, ranging from regional mapping, agriculture, and forestry, to disaster mitigation. In addition, this satellite will also be equipped with an Automatic Identification System (AIS) to monitor ship traffic in Indonesian waters more effectively.
Furthermore, BRIN emphasized that this initiative is part of a grand vision to build a resilient national space ecosystem. In addition to strengthening domestic industry, this step is also aimed as a foundation for Indonesia to transform from a mere technology user into a competitive producer and service provider in the global space market.
