BRIN ready to launch NEO 1 satellite in January 2027 with 65 percent local content

The National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) has stated it is ready to launch a satellite named Nusantara Earth Observation (NEO 1) in January 2027. The Earth observation satellite, built by Indonesian researchers, will have a domestic component level (TKDN) of 65 percent. BRIN Head Arif Satria stated that the satellite is proof that Indonesia is capable of regenerating innovation in the satellite field and continuing the development of various types of satellites domestically. “The launch of NEO 1 will be an important milestone demonstrating that Indonesia is increasingly capable of mastering the entire satellite technology chain,” Arif said during the celebration of 50 years of Indonesian Satellites in Jakarta on Wednesday. Arif said BRIN is preparing all NEO 1 assets by relying on homegrown innovation, from mission design, system design, and software testing to satellite operations and ground station support. “NEO 1 contains a TKDN of approximately 65 percent, and once again, that is a source of pride for all of us as the Indonesian nation,” Arif said. Regarding its functions, the satellite will provide solutions to support the provision of national imagery data and will be used for regional mapping, agriculture, forestry, marine affairs, disaster mitigation, environmental monitoring, and monitoring ship activity via the Automatic Identification System (AIS). In addition, NEO 1 will also support government needs, industrial research, and public services related to satellite data-based Earth imaging. After NEO 1 is successfully launched, BRIN will continue to develop innovations for other types of satellites to provide more benefits for the Indonesian people. One of these is the development of a national telecommunications satellite to strengthen national unity through connectivity. “Mastery of telecommunications satellite technology is a strategic investment that strengthens digital sovereignty, enhances economic competitiveness, and reduces dependence on foreign technology and service providers,” Satria said.