Bangladesh Joins Global Space Alliance for Climate Monitoring and Research
BSCL Recognized as Signatory and National Focal Point for Space for Climate Observatory
- BSCL achieves official status as SCO Signatory and Bangladesh's National Focal Point
- Partnership enhances satellite-based climate monitoring, disaster risks, and research
- Formal signature ceremony expected at the upcoming Paris Space Summit in September
3 August, Monday: Bangladesh Satellite Company Limited (BSCL) has achieved official recognition as a Signatory and the National Focal Point for Bangladesh at the Space for Climate Observatory (SCO), an international space-based climate monitoring alliance. Spearheaded by the French space agency CNES (Centre National d'Études Spatiales), Bangladesh's inclusion marks a pivotal milestone in national space technology and climate action diplomacy.
Following approval from the Post and Telecommunications Division, BSCL submitted an Expression of Interest (EoI) to the SCO on December 8, 2025. Subsequently, the SCO Steering Committee approved the decision to grant BSCL member status and designate it as the country's National Focal Point.
Established in 2019 under the initiative of the French government, SCO brings together global space agencies, academic institutions, and international organizations. The platform merges Earth observation satellite data, in-situ observations, and local socio-economic data to monitor localized climate impacts, generate early warnings, and assist policymakers. In Bangladesh, SCO currently funds the 'BanD-SOS' project, which provides real-time storm surge modeling and risk mapping during cyclones.
Commenting on the milestone, BSCL Managing Director and CEO Dr. Imadul Islam stated, "Securing SCO membership and National Focal Point status is a prestigious international recognition for Bangladesh. It reflects a major stride in our space and climate diplomacy. This partnership opens new avenues for collaborative research, technological exchange, and capacity building, strengthening our resilience against climate change."
A formal Signature Ceremony is scheduled to take place during a dedicated session at the Space Summit in Paris, France, on September 9, 2026.
//DBTech/UHBP/SME//
