Singapore, April 28 -- Singapore will develop its first satellite for the Home Team, scheduled for launch in 2029, to enhance its capacity to respond to emergencies.

The satellite, named Xplorer, weighing about 100kg, will operate in near-equatorial orbit and be equipped with sensors to detect toxic gases such as ammonia, thereby assisting the Singapore Civil Defence Force in responding more quickly to dangerous incidents, Coordinating Minister for National Security K Shanmugam, who is also Home Affairs Minister, said on April 28.

The Home Team Science and Technology Agency (HTX) is collaborating with the new National Space Agency of Singapore (NSAS) to research the application of space technology in strengthening public safety. Simulta...