The following are some key excerpts (with edits for brevity) from the document referenced at the end of this article.
Space-based services are an integral part of modern society and its infrastructure
Space-based services and data are utilized widely in government decision making, planning and provision of public services. Satellite navigation systems, time signal, satellite-based earth observation and satellite communications are examples of space-based technologies that are utilized in provision of various public services, e.g., emergency services, public safety as well as environmental protection and enforce- ment. Similarly, many industry and business related applications are dependent on space-based technologies e.g., energy and telecom networks, commerce, financial and insurance services, transports and logistics. Additionally, many services depend on space-based services, data, and technology. In effect, space-based services are critical to the modern society.
Space-based activities bring many improvements to the society
Space-based services are improving efficacy of numerous everyday activities. Many are familiar with satellite navigation through mobile phone map applications. A significant share of international telecommunications is routed through satellite connection. Satellite images and sensor data are used in several research and information applications, e.g., weather forecasts and atmospheric research, monitoring forests, water quality, agriculture, or snow cover and to assist in winter navigation at sea. Space technology is also present in consumer products, as many materials that are used in for example in clothes and other everyday items originate from various space pro- grams.
Key findings and conclusions
Space uptake is broad in various government sectors and space-based services are instrumental for decision making and operations
Space-based services have a variety of roles in multiple government sectors and at different levels. The implementation of the Government program benefits from space uptake in a variety of ways. However, the role of space activities and services is often unacknowledged in government or society at large.
The Finnish government, public sector and business are engaged in downstream space activity and have a host of developed applications of space-based services. New applications are constantly being developed. The roles of space activities differ from government sector to sector.
Space-based services are used in various business sectors.
Interruption in space-based services can have major effects for functioning of society
Service interruptions may be caused for example by space weather and associated solar activity, space debris, malfunctions in satellites or terrestrial infrastructure or intentional interference, jamming or spoofing. The service interruption can be local or broad and vary in length.
Especially broad and prolonged interruptions may have serious effect in infrastructure and normal functioning of the society. For example, energy and telecom network service quality will suffer and interruption in time synchronization may affect network balance and cause blackouts. Transport and logistics as well as public safety services also largely depend on GNSSs, and interruptions in service may threaten supply security and public safety.
Recommendations
As whole, Finland is utilizing space technologies relatively broadly. The recommendations are focusing on how Finland can maximize the benefits in both public sector and businesses.
Recommendation 1: Knowledge of space-based services and understanding of the possibilities should be strengthened in government and general population
Space-based services are little known compared to their importance to normal functioning of society. Space awareness should be built and integrated to regulation and sectoral strategies also outside the space community.
Recommendation 2: The strategic management of Finnish space activities should be reinforced
Recommendation 3: Further actions and investments in developing space uptake and the national ecosystems should be based on recognizing the most potential and relevant technology and application areas
The national focus areas should be decided based on national strategic importance and global demand, and to reflect national capabilities and competence, to channel investments to the most potential areas of activity. (cf. recommendation 2)
Recommendation 4: Greater value capture from European space programs requires better coordination and proactive preparation by national actors
Capturing the full benefits of the European programs demands proactive national strategizing, lobbying, programming, and both public and private investments in capacity building. (cf. recommendations 2 and 3)
Recommendation 5: The government and ministries should use pre-commercial procurement more effectively in enabling space uptake
When preparing to use pre-commercial procurement, organizations and purchasing units should have the necessary capability for procurement, requirements engineering, developing and using the solutions to realize the expected outcomes.
