Türkiye to take share in ‘global space economy’ by developing critical technologies

ANKARA

Türkiye will focus on developing critical technologies in various fields to secure a share of the global space economy, which surpassed over half a billion dollars last year.

Under the framework of its National Space Program, Türkiye aims to contribute to the rapidly growing space economy by advancing technologies in areas such as positioning systems, robotics, optical communications, and artificial intelligence (AI).

The country plans to capitalize on its strategic position bridging Asia and Europe in the highly competitive space sector valued at $596 billion.

The global space economy is expected to grow at an average annual rate of 9%, significantly outpacing the expected 5% annual growth of global GDP. By 2033, it is projected to exceed $1 trillion, according to data compiled by Anadolu.

The space economy comprises two main segments: private and state-sector activities, which accounted for $224 billion, and space infrastructure services and applications, which amounted to $308 billion.

Satellite solutions, particularly in communications and Earth observation, are the main drivers of this growth.

Ankara is intensifying efforts to secure a larger share of the space economy through private sector involvement. Türkiye made its first crewed space journey last year and is moving forward with its lunar project.

To strengthen its position in the global space ecosystem, Türkiye plans to develop key components, including rocket and satellite engines, landing systems, and navigation systems. These initiatives will help reduce the country’s dependency on foreign technologies and contribute to its economic growth.

Türkiye also aims to establish a domestic spaceport to meet the demand for cost-effective launch services in the growing satellite market. In addition, deep space exploration will become a priority as the country continues to invest in space research.

The National Space Program’s goals are designed to integrate Türkiye further into the global space economy, transitioning the country from a consumer of space technology to a producer of critical space technologies.

Key technologies prioritized in the program include advanced propulsion systems, software-defined radio, optical communications systems, phased array antennas, and energy storage technologies to enhance satellite capabilities.

Furthermore, Türkiye plans to develop robotics, automation, AI, and material science technologies to improve the efficiency and capabilities of space missions.

Advanced additive manufacturing technologies will be employed to produce next-generation durable, lightweight spacecraft materials.