Dr Pakorn Apaphant

Executive Director, Geo-informatics and Space Technology Development Agency

Industry : Science

Space is no longer simply a scientific frontier. For Dr Pakorn Apaphant, it sits at the intersection of technology, economic development, security and national strategy. As Executive Director of the Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency (GISTDA), he leads Thailand’s efforts to advance space technology, satellite applications and geo-informatics.

That broad remit suits a career spent connecting scientific expertise with practical and strategic concerns. A specialist in satellite remote sensing, geographic information systems and digital photogrammetry, Dr Pakorn has helped develop Thailand’s space ecosystem through roles spanning government, academia and the private sector. Alongside membership of national committees covering science, technology and space affairs, his experience includes board positions at Global Power Synergy Public Company Limited and Dhanarak Asset Development Company Limited.

His academic foundations are equally multidisciplinary: a bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from King Mongkut’s Institute of Technology Ladkrabang followed by advanced degrees in Civil Engineering from Purdue University.
In 2026, Dr Pakorn’s perspective takes on an international dimension with his appointment as chair of the Scientific and Technical Subcommittee of the United Nations Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space. It is a fitting platform for someone helping position Thailand within a field whose influence increasingly extends far beyond the stars.