Vietnam’s space industry makes strides in 10 yearsVietnam’s space industry has gained significant development in the 10 years since the launch of its first satellite Vinasat-1 (April 18, 2008). Ariane 5 rocket with Vinasat-2 on board on its way to the launch pad in Guiana Space Centre in 2013In 2006, then Prime Minister Phan Van Khai approved the strategy for Research and Application on Space Technology for Vietnam’s socio-economic development. Almost two years later, Vietnam Post and Telecommunications Group signed an agreement with Lockheed Martin of the US on the creation of the Vinasat-1 satellite. The launch of Vinasat-1 in 2008 marked a milestone of the country’s space industry. The Hanoi-based Vietnam Space Centre under the Vietnam National Satellite Centre (VNSC) is a significant project which will be responsible for research and management of small satellites observing the Earth and Vietnam.