Latest news with #spaceinnovation
Zawya
10-07-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Oman: MTCIT's national space accelerator to boost tech startups
Muscat – Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology (MTCIT) launched a national initiative – designed to empower local startups to develop innovative space solutions and services – called Space Accelerators Programme on Wednesday. The one-year programme aims to stimulate entrepreneurship in the space sector, attract investment in advanced technologies, and support the localisation and transfer of space services within the sultanate. It also aligns with Oman's broader goals of economic diversification and technological advancement. The programme will be implemented by Omani firm Ankaa Space and Technology Company in partnership with Exotopic, a UK-based firm specialising in accelerator initiatives. It will support ten Omani startups in developing commercially viable space technologies, while enhancing national capabilities in space innovation. Dr Saud bin Humaid al Shuaili, Director General of Policies and Governance and Head of National Space Programme, said the initiative is part of MTCIT's broader efforts to build a vibrant ecosystem for space entrepreneurship. 'The programme offers an integrated environment that combines technical mentorship, entrepreneurial training, and access to a global network of partners and experts,' Shuaili said. It will focus on high-impact sectors including satellite communications, Earth observation, geo-spatial analytics, navigation, artificial intelligence, drones, the Internet of Things, spacecraft simulation, and advanced computing. The top three performing startups will also receive incentives supporting long-term sustainability and growth of their ventures. The programme will include a comprehensive training curriculum covering technical and commercial aspects aimed at enhancing skills of local entrepreneurs. © Apex Press and Publishing Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
Zawya
10-07-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Oman launches 'Space Accelerators Program' to boost local innovation
Muscat: The Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology (MTCIT) has officially launched the "Space Accelerators Program," a strategic initiative designed to empower Omani startups in developing cutting-edge space-related solutions and services. This programme aims to cultivate innovation and entrepreneurship within the burgeoning space sector, while simultaneously creating a robust environment for investment in advanced technologies. This initiative is a key component of the Ministry's broader efforts to implement the national space policy and executive programme. It specifically targets objectives such as economic diversification and capacity building, with the ultimate goal of facilitating the transfer and localisation of space technologies and services through national entities. The year-long programme will be delivered by Phoenix Space and Technology Company in collaboration with Exotopic, a UK-based firm renowned for its expertise in accelerator programmes. The "Space Accelerators Program" is set to qualify ten local startups within the space sector, providing them with essential support to develop prototypes or commercially viable technological solutions. Beyond this, it seeks to enhance national skills in space innovation and establish a comprehensive network of local and international support for entrepreneurial ventures in the space industry. Dr. Saud bin Hamoud Al Shaaili, Director General of Policies and Governance and Head of the National Space Program at the Ministry, emphasised that this initiative is a dedicated national programme aimed at accelerating the growth of local space startups. He stated that it will enable them to develop commercially feasible space services and solutions within an integrated environment that offers crucial technical guidance, entrepreneurial training, and access to a vital network of partners and experts. This, he noted, will support the creation of a high-value, innovation-driven space industry. Dr. Al Shaaili further highlighted that the programme will foster a competitive environment, actively encouraging innovative solutions. The top three participating startups will be awarded incentive prizes, designed to help them establish sustainable operations that align with the strategic direction of the space sector. The programme's focus areas within the space industry are extensive, including communications, Earth observation and monitoring, geospatial analytics, navigation, drones, artificial intelligence and machine learning, advanced computing, data storage and preservation, the Internet of Things, spacecraft simulation environments, startup growth acceleration, and technological innovation. © Muscat Media Group Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
Zawya
09-07-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Tenchijin Wins 2nd Place at IVS2025 LAUNCHPAD – One of Asia's Most Prestigious Startup Competitions
TOKYO, JAPAN - Media OutReach Newswire - 9 July 2025 - Tenchijin Inc., a space-tech innovator revolutionizing sustainable water infrastructure management, proudly announced it was awarded 2nd place at IVS2025 LAUNCHPAD, one of Japan's largest and most prestigious startup pitch events. Our CEO Presented 'KnoWaterleak' at IVS2025 LAUNCHPAD Finals Now in its 19th year since its founding in 2007, IVS LAUNCHPAD has become Asia's most influential startup pitch stage, serving as a launchpad for startups that have secured significant funding and successful exits. Official Website: This year, IVS2025 LAUNCHPAD received over 350 applications, including approximately 15% from overseas. After a highly competitive selection process, Tenchijin was selected as one of the 15 finalists to take the stage at the finals. Each finalist delivered a six-minute pitch before a panel of esteemed judges composed of investors, business executives, and entrepreneurs. During the finals, Tenchijin CEO Yasuhito Sakuraba took the stage to present "Tenchijin COMPASS KnoWaterleak," an innovative platform that harnesses satellite data and AI to predict and prevent water infrastructure risks. The judges recognized Tenchijin's innovative use of space-based technologies in addressing critical water management challenges, awarding the company 2nd place among hundreds of top-tier startups. 'First of all, I would like to express my sincere gratitude to our team members who have supported us along the way. I also hope that our presentation helped raise awareness of the important work being done every day by those involved in the water industry. We will continue to take on social challenges by leveraging space-based big data. We sincerely appreciate your continued support,' said Yasuhito Sakuraba, CEO of Tenchijin. Hashtag: #Tenchijin #KnoWaterleak #SatelliteTechnology #WaterLeakage #Sustainability #LeakageDetection #IVS2025 The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. About Tenchijin Inc. Tenchijin, Inc. is a space-tech innovator leveraging satellite data and AI to detect hidden water infrastructure risks, predict potential leaks, and drive more sustainable, efficient water management through space-derived insights. Our flagship product, KnoWaterleak, combines satellite technology with advanced AI algorithms to proactively identify and prevent costly infrastructure failures, enabling organizations to manage their water systems more sustainably. Company Overview: Tenchijin, Inc.
Yahoo
08-07-2025
- Science
- Yahoo
‘The Sky Is Not The Limit': Space Force In New Mexico
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (KRQE) – The sky is not the limit in New Mexico, especially when it comes to the mission of the U.S. Space Force. This week on the New Mexico News Insiders Podcast, Chris and Gabby talk with two guests leading innovation, tech development, and national security efforts with the USSF in Albuquerque. Gabe Mounce, Director of the Tech Engagement Office with the Air Force Research Lab New Mexico, and Matthew Fetrow, Senior Scientist with the USSF, explain what this newest military branch is focused on. University researchers, local tech companies, and Kirtland Air Force Base are playing crucial roles that New Mexicans may not know about. How are private companies teaming up with the government to launch the future of space defense? And could space tourism really take off in our lifetime? 'How do we predict when a satellite is gonna fail, right?' Mounce said. 'Or how do you better monitor the health of a satellite? And as you can imagine, that's really important because it's an object that's remote in orbit, we can't access it. Despite the fact that we have an international space station, we do not have enough yet capability for astronauts to be fixing satellites – yet.' Mounce explains how locally developed technology is helping to solve that very problem. Listen to the full discussion above to learn why New Mexico is becoming a key player in the space race. Watch Gabe's TED Talk mentioned in the episode Read more about how start-up companies are paired with USSF and DoD Stay informed with the latest news by subscribing to the New Mexico News Insiders podcast wherever you listen. Download new episodes of the New Mexico News Insiders every Tuesday, starting around 5:30 a.m., Mountain time. Episodes are available on most podcast platforms, including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Podbean, among others. You can also watch our podcasts in video form, both on-air and online. Tune in to an abbreviated version of the New Mexico News Insiders podcast on broadcast television every Wednesday at 10:35 p.m. on Fox New Mexico. Full video episodes are posted on KRQE's YouTube page at Having trouble finding the show? Try searching your favorite podcast player with the term 'KRQE' or 'New Mexico News Insiders' (without the quotes). You can also use the links above to find the podcast on each service or listen to the audio player at the top of this post. If you have a question, comment, or suggestion for who should be interviewed on the podcast, let us know! Email your hosts at or Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
RNZ News
03-07-2025
- Science
- RNZ News
Indian students given giant leap at NASA after winning scholarships
Shivam Desai is currently interning at NASA's prestigious Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Southern California after receiving a 2025 New Zealand space scholarship. Photo: Supplied Two young Kiwi Indians have landed internships at NASA's iconic Jet Propulsion Laboratory in California, marking a giant leap for the country's growing ambitions in space. The pair were among seven university students selected under a government initiative offering New Zealand tertiary students the opportunity to work with NASA scientists and engineers. The international internship programme was launched following a 2018 agreement between the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment and NASA. Sponsored by the New Zealand Space Agency, the three-month placements provided students with hands-on experience on cutting-edge NASA missions at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory, one of the world's premier space research centres. "It's exciting and inspirational," said Andrew Johnson, deputy head of the New Zealand Space Agency. "We're proud to support the next generation of science and space innovators." Johnson said the government had also launched some prime ministerial space prizes last year, including a student endeavour award, to support young talent. "These initiatives align with the government's goal of building an aerospace-capable workforce - one of five key objectives in the New Zealand Space and Advanced Aviation Strategy 2024-2030," he said. "I'd been waiting to apply for this scholarship since my undergraduate studies," said Shivam Desai, a mechatronics engineering master's student from the University of Auckland. The 24-year-old student was awarded the scholarship alongside other recipients at Parliament by Space Minister Judith Collins on 5 June. He described the selection process as rigorous, involving a written application and video interview. "I got a call while heading home from university in early March that I'd been selected and, now, here I am in Pasadena," Desai said. NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Southern California. Photo: NASA/JPL-Caltech Born in Ahmedabad, India, Desai moved to New Zealand as an infant, now calling New Lynn home. "We travel to India quite often. I have a lot of family there," he said. "My parents have made a real effort to keep me connected to that part of my identity, which I'm very grateful for." Desai is working at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory on the deployment mechanism for antenna systems, particularly those launched on small satellites. His fascination with space began in high school. "I watched a documentary by Neil deGrasse Tyson while I was learning about gravity and orbital dynamics and that's when my interest really took off," he said. "I think NASA had just released the first images of black holes around then, and I remember thinking, 'This is a really cool space to be in'. That moment stuck with me." He acknowledged that while opportunities in space were still limited in New Zealand, he had seen promising growth - especially at university level. "There are so many student-run clubs working on small satellites and passing down knowledge," he said. He said Kiwis had demonstrated their capabilities in the space sector through companies such as Rocket Lab, Dawn Aerospace, and Kea Aerospace. Desai said he hoped to bring what he learned during his internship back to help develop New Zealand's space industry. Taran John is currently interning at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Southern California. Photo: Supplied Taran John, another scholarship recipient, shared similar aspirations. A third-year PhD student at Victoria University in Wellington, John is also based in Pasadena for the internship. John's PhD research centres on developing an AI assistant to support dermatologists in detecting and grading skin cancers. At the Jet Propulsion Laboratory, he will use similar software to assist with sampling on Martian or lunar surfaces, focusing on improving interactions between astronauts and their equipment. "You can feel how close you are to bleeding-edge tech," he said. "JPL has played a role in so many major space achievements. Being here, you're surrounded by some of the best minds in the world." Born in Bangalore, India, John's family hails from the southern state of Kerala. He grew up in Lower Hutt but said he was proud of his Indian heritage. "I don't know if I should say this on record," he said, "but I root for the Indian cricket team. "We've got a strong Malayali community in Wellington, and growing up around them really helped me stay connected to my culture." Like Desai, John also planned to return to New Zealand and contribute to its developing space sector. "I don't see myself settling anywhere else. I'm a Kiwi. I've got friends and family here," he said. "It's valuable to get international research experience and bring that home," he said. "Maybe I'll start a start-up - there are so many paths to take. My PhD submission's due next year, so I've got some time to figure it out." Both students said they were missing their families and expressed deep gratitude for their support. "I definitely miss them," John said. "Honestly, I wouldn't be here without them. The importance my family has placed on education all my life is a big reason I'm here." Desai echoed the sentiment, noting the community's strong investment in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). "From a STEM perspective, the Indian community is incredibly engaged," he said. "It's really inspiring to see how involved we are."
