Innovation within satcom is more prevalent than ever. As we see new stakeholders presenting ambitious plans in LEO and at the ground segment, the industry is developing incredibly quickly. Beyond the innovation in the headlines, it’s also important to highlight the innovation required behind the scenes. Understanding market needs and facilitating how needs are met technologically is a complex issue; in an industry where one user can impact on multiple other businesses, it is crucial that the industry remains forward thinking in its technical mindset. Here are some important ways in which the satcom industry can drive innovation to maximise its potential:
Discussion is key
There is huge value in bringing technical professionals together, allowing them to discuss the challenges they see facing the industry. Importantly, there must be cohesion within the use of space; issues such as RF interference or poor-quality equipment can have a huge impact on services. By having an opportunity to discuss challenges, both formally and anecdotally, solutions can be created to shape the future of the industry. Past workshops have been a great example of how progress can be made when users from all corners of the industry come together to discuss the opportunities and challenges facing the sector. We have recently created working groups in which participants can discuss the opportunities and challenges facing satcom around 5G, AI, FPAs and cloud working. With so many positive outcomes, we look forward to hosting our next workshop in 2022.
Education
Inspiring the next generation to work within satcom is hugely important. Technological jobs can be overlooked, making the roles feel inaccessible to students. Running educational programmes and improving relations between the education sector and satcom should be a priority for all organisations. STEM roles are going to drive innovation within our vertical. Last year we started welcoming academic members to SIG; it has provided us with a great opportunity to access the newest and brightest talent to our group. Additionally, our ongoing work with UK-based Shaftesbury School has helped promote satcom within the establishment. SIG member, Airbus, and SIG Board Advisor, Martin Coleman, partnered to invite the school to the Airbus facilities in Portsmouth. Since the visit, the school has seen a significant increase in students’ intentions to seek a job in STEM. Last year, Shaftesbury student, James Pester, won the Young Engineer of the Year SIG Award for his aspirational spirit and success in securing a job at Airbus. We hope to continue promoting educational programmes alongside our members.
Collaborative working
Quite often, finding solutions requires collaborative working. In 2020, QuadSAT and ESA’s work to ensure that the UAS testing solution could deliver SOMAP approvals was awarded SIG’s Cooperation of the Year Award. Over the years, we have witnessed many projects in which collaborations have transformed parts of the sector. Satcom undeniably requires all users to work in a coordinated approach as users can impact on each other’s’ use of space. Promoting collaboration is a fantastic way of driving innovation and ensuring that satcom maximises its opportunities.
Recognising innovation
The SIG Awards was launched to highlight the excellence of the industry. Nominations are now open for the 2021 Awards – we welcome your nominations in the following categories:
- Innovation of the Year
- Cooperation of the Year
- Young Engineer of the Year
- Educational Project of the Year
The last two years has seen many changes within satcom, and we feel it’s important to highlight important technological advances. We welcome nominations from both members and non-members. We look forward to announcing the winners in the new year.