LIMA 2025 A.T.M.O.S Sphere: A Launchpad for Innovation, Collaboration, and Global Engagement

21 May 2025

LANGKAWI: Malaysia is charting a new course in the regional space economy with the launch of the A.T.M.O.S Sphere at the 17th Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition (LIMA’25) on 20 May 2025.

The A.T.M.O.S Sphere was officially unveiled by Dato’ Nonee Ashirin Dato’ Mohd Radzi, Executive Chairman of Global Turbine Asia Sdn Bhd (GTA) and Strategy Adviser to Global Exhibitions and Conferences (GEC), during a ceremony attended by Yang Berbahagia Datuk Seri Haji Hasnol Zam Zam bin Haji Ahmad, Secretary General of the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MOSTI).

Positioned at the centre of LIMA’s expanded Space and Innovation pillar, the A.T.M.O.S Sphere embodies the exhibition’s theme: “Innovate Today, Thrive Tomorrow.”

LIMA’25, organised by the Ministry of Defence Malaysia (MINDEF) and co-hosted by GEC, stands as the Asia-Pacific’s premier platform for aerospace, maritime, and now, space technology.

At the heart of the exhibition, the A.T.M.O.S Sphere demonstrates how space technology is advancing climate science, telecommunications, navigation, agriculture, and national security.

The event featured keynote addresses from Dato’ Nonee and Russian cosmonaut trainer Timofey Egorov, highlighting Malaysia’s increasing role in the NewSpace economy, with a strong emphasis on international collaboration and youth engagement.

A notable highlight was the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) between the Nonee Ashirin Foundation and CWC Enterprise Pte. Ltd. This partnership will establish Malaysia’s first Young Cosmonaut School in Penang, inspiring and training the next generation of space explorers and STEM leaders.

“This agreement, made possible by the launch of the A.T.M.O.S Sphere, demonstrates our commitment to building a sustainable space ecosystem in Malaysia. Through collaboration and education, we are laying the foundations for long-term growth within the global space economy,” stated Dato’ Nonee Ashirin.

Commenting on the Young Cosmonaut School, Egorov said: “The initiative aims to empower children to begin their space journey at an early age by igniting their curiosity and teaching essential skills—including ethics, which are vital for any successful astronaut. Beyond inspiring future space explorers, the school seeks to nurture a new generation of critical thinkers, problem-solvers, and leaders equipped to drive innovation across science and technology.”

He added: “Malaysia is uniquely positioned to become a key hub for space development in the region — not only because of its strategic geographic location near the equator, which is ideal for space centres, but also due to its forward-looking policies supporting space exploration, education, and innovation. These factors make Malaysia an excellent partner in advancing global space initiatives.”

A.T.M.O.S Sphere: A Dome for Discovery and Engagement

Throughout LIMA’25, the A.T.M.O.S Sphere will host a dynamic programme of exhibitions, live demonstrations, and thought leadership sessions. Highlights include rocket launch simulations, immersive art installations exploring space and the oceans, and “The Future One” talks featuring international experts and local industry leaders.

Designed to foster collaboration between industry, government, and academia, the A.T.M.O.S Sphere aims to nurture local talent and accelerate Malaysia’s emergence as a regional leader in the space economy.