KUCHING: Astrum Dynamic, Spaceport Malaysia, and Spaceport Malaysia Sarawak are collaborating on a proposal to develop a suitable satellite launch methodology for Sarawak through a memorandum of understanding (MoU).
Spaceport Malaysia founder and president Norul Ridzuan Zakaria said the MoU aims to introduce the Sarawak Light Airlaunch System for High-Altitude and Orbital Access (SLASH) methodology.
This system will support the launch of Kenyalang-1, a proposed microsatellite for the Sarawak government.
“We don’t have a proven air-launch platform in the market. This means we would need to develop a full launch complex, including buffer zones, underground liquid fuel storage for safety, and all associated systems.
“For ground-based launches, significant infrastructure is required, making them challenging unless fully reusable systems, such as those from SpaceX, are used. This is an option limited to a few companies.
“By utilising an air-launch system, we only need a rocket and an aircraft, eliminating the need for extensive launch complexes. These operations can be conducted from any suitable airport, with launches taking place in safe locations,” he said during the signing ceremony held at the Hilton Hotel here yesterday (Jan 3).
He added that the parties will conduct an in-depth study over six months to determine the most suitable launch methodology.
He said the findings will be submitted to the Sarawak government and presented to Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
“Our aim is to avoid using conventional multi-stage rockets, which require dropping parts in the sea or neighbouring countries east of Sarawak. The exact methodology has yet to be finalised,” he added.
The SLASH system offers several advantages, including the ability to operate from conventional airports, environmental sustainability, low development and operational costs, high safety and low risk, reusability, rapid turnaround times, and cost-effective certification.
The first stage of SLASH involves an executive jet equipped with rocket release-launch capabilities, while the second stage comprises a single-stage rocket. This rocket can carry sensors and transmitters into the stratosphere and near space (25-100km altitude) and deploy microsatellites weighing up to 50kg into orbit (above 100km altitude).
Astrum Dynamic Sdn Bhd, a Sarawak-based company, focuses on the space industry in collaboration with Spaceport Malaysia. Since 2014, Astrum Dynamic has worked with Spaceport Malaysia on space tourism, research, and related activities.
With the Premier’s mandate to position Sarawak as a national hub for space launches, Astrum Dynamic and Spaceport Malaysia are spearheading efforts to propose and implement a comprehensive space ecosystem and industry in the state.
Spaceport Malaysia is among over 35 spaceport organisations worldwide, boasting strategic partnerships with prominent European space consortiums such as Thales Alenia and ALTEC Space.
Also present were Astrum Dynamic Sdn Bhd chairman Wan Abdul Aziz Wan Ahmad, managing director Mohd Mehraj Wahap, and Spaceport Malaysia Sarawak managing director Nasruddin Mohamad.
