Comparison of established ASEAN space programs and lessons learned

Abstract

Although fascinating from a purely historical perspective, the purpose of this book is not merely to describe the space development trajectory of ASEAN member states but rather to serve as a practical handbook from which to pick and choose applicable lessons on the establishment of a domestic space program. Core of the book, this chapter proposes a factual comparison of established ASEAN space programs before detailing a series of lessons distilled from Chaps. 2-6 and from the case of Thailand. It highlights the contributions of various stakeholders to the success or the failure of national space development efforts, be they universities, government agencies or commercial satellite manufacturers. The huge variety of socio-economic and governmental landscapes among ASEAN member countries allows both specific and general lessons to be drawn, therefore making this chapter a useful read for any country willing to initiate a domestic space development program. In addition, while the focus of this book is on developing countries, the lessons they offer are applicable to all countries.