Welcome to Satellite Technology and Research Centre

The Satellite Technology and Research Centre (STAR) at the National University of Singapore is a platform for advancing space technology through research, education and real-world space missions.

STAR brings together faculty, researchers, students, government agencies and industry partners to translate emerging technologies from the laboratory to space. Building on our experience in satellite development and operations, the Centre is evolving beyond individual satellite programmes towards developing technologies, capabilities and talent that strengthen Singapore’s growing space ecosystem.

Our research focuses on next-generation space technologies, including advanced distributed satellite systems, space autonomy and in-orbit technology demonstration. Wherever possible, research at STAR is driven towards tangible outcomes, from laboratory validation and environmental qualification to integration, launch and on-orbit experimentation.

A key strength of STAR is our ability to provide an end-to-end environment for space technology development. Our facilities and technical capabilities support spacecraft and payload development, assembly, integration and testing, and mission operations. Together with our network of government, research, industry and international partners, this enables STAR to serve as a collaborative platform where promising technologies can progress towards flight demonstration and eventual adoption.

Research that reaches space. Education built around real missions.

Education and talent development are equally central to our mission. At STAR, students do not encounter space technology only in the classroom. They work alongside researchers and engineers on real spacecraft systems, payloads, ground infrastructure and research missions, gaining experience across the full lifecycle of a space project.

Through undergraduate projects, research attachments, internships, postgraduate research and the NUS Space Technology curriculum, STAR provides a pathway for students to progress from learning fundamental concepts to contributing to advanced R&D and national space initiatives. In doing so, we aim to develop not only technically capable graduates, but the next generation of engineers, researchers and leaders for Singapore's space sector.

Looking ahead, our ambition is for STAR to be a central hub for space technology within NUS and a trusted R&D partner for Singapore's space ecosystem, a place where agencies can develop strategic capabilities, industry can collaborate on emerging technologies, researchers can translate ideas into spaceborne experiments, and students can build their careers through meaningful space projects.

We welcome opportunities to collaborate on research programmes, technology and payload demonstrations, space missions, industry partnerships and talent development initiatives. At STAR, we bring research, missions and talent together, with the goal of turning ideas on the ground into capabilities in space.

Asst. Prof. Abhishek Rai
Director, Satellite Technology and Research Centre
National University of Singapore