Dr. Ilhami Aygun
President and CEO
SSI-MonacoSAT
Moderator: Africa / Middle East: Connecting People, Businesses and Governments through Collaboration
Dr. Ilhami Aygun is a globally recognized leader and pioneer in satellite communications, currently serving as the President and CEO of Space Systems International-Monaco (SSI-Monaco) and Monacosat, in partnership with the Monaco Government.
Under Dr. Aygun’s leadership, SSI-Monaco established the Monaco orbital position at 52°E and successfully launched MonacoSAT-1 (also known as TurkmenAlem52E) in 2015, in collaboration with Thales Alenia Space and SpaceX. This achievement not only positioned the Principality of Monaco as an influential player in space but also facilitated groundbreaking satellite communication services for underserved regions.
Dr. Aygun’s extensive career highlights include founding and directing Türkiye’s national satellite program as the first Director of Turksat, where he oversaw the launch of the country’s first four satellites. He has also played pivotal roles in Azerbaijan’s and Turkmenistan’s satellite initiatives, including leading the partnership that brought Turkmenistan’s first satellite, TurkmenAlem52E, into operation.
A staunch advocate of leveraging satellite connectivity to bridge the digital divide, Dr. Aygun’s work has advanced socio-economic development by providing access to information, education, and economic opportunities in underserved and remote regions.
Dr. Aygun holds a degree in Electrical/Electronics Engineering from Middle East Technical University (METU), with advanced studies at Southampton University (UK), AT&T Bell Labs/MIT (USA), and Marmara University (Turkey).
In recognition of his contributions to the global satellite industry, Dr. Aygun has been honored with the titles of Chevalier and Officier in Monaco’s Ordre de Saint-Charles by Prince Albert II of Monaco.
Dr. Aygun is a sought-after expert in satellite telecommunications and a passionate advocate for global connectivity, making him a prominent voice in the industry’s efforts to close the digital divide.