The SIG awards provide the opportunity to shout loud and proud about all the incredible work being done to further the satcoms industry, not least some of the incredible young people and educational initiatives from around the world.
As the nominations start to arrive for the second annual SIG awards, it seems an opportune time to take a look at last year’s winners.
- Innovation of the Year
The Innovation Award was presented last year for the most innovative solution brought to market within the previous 12 months, and QuadSAT was the worthy winner! QuadSAT has been creating innovative solutions for the satcoms industry since 2017, by supplying drone-based antenna testing and tracking solutions to the satellite, defence, wireless and broadcast industries. By developing an industry tailored test method using drone technology, QuadSAT has provided a valuable tool for antenna testing. In 2020, QuadSAT created a portable and location independent drone-based far-field test range that is deployed on site, negating the need to bring the antenna to the test site itself. This solution has increased access to test data, ensuring an efficient future for satcoms.
- Cooperation of the Year
Awarded to two companies in 2020, the Cooperation of the Year Awards was presented for a project in which cooperation was vital to solving a specific industry challenge. The Satellite Operators Minimum Antenna Performance (SOMAP) requirements establish minimum performance recommendations for satellite service providers. Collaboration between QuadSAT and the European Space Agency (ESA) ensured that the ESA’s Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) testing solution could deliver SOMAP and other satellite service provider protocol approvals. Not only does this enable highly accurate testing, but also dramatically reduces downtime, allowing for a saving of both time and cost.
- Young Engineer of the Year
It is essential for the continued success of satcoms that future generations are engaged and involved in the industry. As such, the Young Engineer of the Year Award was created to celebrate budding engineers around the world – like James Pester. James exemplifies the spirit of the award, using his own initiative and determination to secure a job with Airbus after realising the importance of the industry while working on STEAM projects at Shaftesbury School. Taking on all the necessary procedures and contacting the relevant people without assistance or prompt, James has shown a confidence and initiative beyond his years. As someone who can appreciate the relevance of STEAM subjects for the future, and that they are more than a buzzword, James and others like him show that the future of satcoms is bright and full of potential.
- Educational Project of the year
The Educational Project of the Year Award is vitally important as without engaged students, the future of the industry would grind to a halt. Since its launch in 2016, the Auckland Programme for Space Systems, at the Te Pūnaha Ātea Space Institute (part of The University of Auckland) offers students the opportunity to design, build and operate a 1U CubeSat which addresses a societal need. Even more excitingly, the project is open not just to those enrolled on an engineering course – all faculties are invited to get involved, creating a greater awareness of the importance of the satellite industry. The first CubeSat from this programme, APSS-I, is due for launch on Rocket Lab’s SSO Rideshare mission. By placing the satellite ground segment as a priority in their programme means that, each year, dozens of students discover the necessity, intricacies, and rewards of satcoms.
- Lifetime Achievement Award
With over five decades of exemplary work on the satellites industry, the final winner clearly needs no introduction. Martin Coleman’s tireless efforts in improving the space industry have inspired us all. Without him, SIG would not be what it is today. Martin’s drive, determination and passion, whether in the field of interference or the importance of collaboration between stakeholders, has ensured the continued success of SIG, and for that he has all our thanks.
What a list! With such an incredible array of achievements, we are really looking forward to seeing what this year brings – we’re really looking forward to reading all your nominations. Nominations are now open.