In the Media: Turkey’s 6th ‘Low Earth Orbit Satellite Ground Observation Station’ Established in Adana
ITouch’s 2019 Vision for Space Technology and Entrepreneurship at Mersin Teknopark
In 2019, ITouch proposed an ambitious vision for space technology and entrepreneurship at Mersin Teknopark, but the project was hindered by unsuitable conditions. The plan included two innovative programs: the INNOLEO Acceleration Program, focusing on low Earth orbit satellite observation and monitoring, and the INNOSAT Acceleration Program for CubeSat design and construction. These programs aimed to establish a ground monitoring station connected to the SatNOGS network and offer comprehensive training in satellite communication and CubeSat development, using Arduino and 3D printing technologies.
Despite its groundbreaking nature, the project faced logistical and financial challenges. The cost of establishing the necessary infrastructure, although partially mitigated by Itouch’s offer to provide software and integration services for free, was a significant hurdle. This financial challenge, combined with the complexity of integrating advanced space technologies into Mersin Teknopark’s existing framework, led to the project’s deferral.
The unrealized potential of ITouch’s 2019 presentation to Mersin Teknopark serves as a reminder of the importance of having a supportive ecosystem for nurturing innovation in emerging technologies like space exploration. It highlights the need for strategic investments and collaborations to realize such visionary projects, which can significantly advance scientific understanding and technological capabilities.
