Middle East Space Roundup: 15 to 21 April 2024
A summary of all the space news in the Greater Middle East over the past week, brought to you by AzurX
The following are the major space developments in the Greater Middle East region tracked by Middle East Space Monitor over the past week:
CSIS Space Threat Assessment 2024: Iran, Israel, and Non-State Actors
U.S. think tank, the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), released its annual Space Threat Assessment report, featuring Iran, Israel, and a section on the growing counterspace threats from non-state actors such as Hamas.
CSIS: Iran’s Space Programme Raises Concerns about Future Conflict in the Space Domain
Iran has continued to advance its space capabilities over the past year, achieving significant milestones despite international concerns that its space developments serve to advance its missile technology. Tehran successfully conducted two space launches in January 2024, placing four separate satellites into orbit using the Simorgh satellite launch vehicle (SLV) and Qaem-100 rocket. In September 2023, Iran launched its third military satellite, Noor-3, believed to perform Earth remote sensing. The country has prioritised strengthening its nuclear, missile, and space programmes under President Ebrahim Raisi, aiming to achieve "first place in the region" and join the "space club" of technologically capable countries. Iran's 10-year strategic plan includes goals such as launching eight new satellites, developing a telecommunications constellation, and sending a human into space within five years. The country has sought assistance from Russia in developing new satellites and spacecraft, while also claiming its civilian space activities are dedicated to peaceful purposes. However, Iran's recent launches of military satellites demonstrate its intent to advance its space programme for military purposes. Additionally, Iran has continued to develop its counterspace capabilities, including sophisticated cyberattacks, jamming, and spoofing, to deny adversaries the use of space capabilities. While there is no open-source indication of Iran possessing direct-ascent antisatellite (DA-ASAT) or orbital counterspace weapons, the country's advancements in space and counterspace technologies raise concerns about the potential for future conflicts in the space domain.
CSIS: Israel Leads Region in Counterspace Capabilities
Israel continues to expand its national security space capabilities and space exploration program, with the launch of a new SAR satellite on its Shavit-2 rocket in March 2023 and the announcement of its first space telescope mission, ULTRASAT, in collaboration with NASA. However, amidst the ongoing conflict with Hamas, Israel has deployed electronic warfare capabilities that have interfered with satellite services, particularly GPS. In October 2023, Israel restricted GPS use in active combat areas and acknowledged the use of GPS spoofing as a defensive measure to confuse guided missiles, drones, and rockets used by Hamas and Hezbollah. These efforts have also impacted civilian aircraft, with multiple instances of GPS interference reported by pilots in the area. The readiness of Israel to interfere with and disrupt GPS signals highlights the growing risk of GPS jamming and spoofing becoming a commonplace counterspace activity. Although not specifically designed to target satellites, Israel's Iron Beam, a short-range directed energy air defence system, could potentially be employed against satellites in the future. Additionally, Israel's use of the Arrow missile defence system to intercept a medium-range ballistic missile fired by Houthi rebels from Yemen in November 2023 demonstrates the potential for similar missile defence systems to be used as direct-ascent ASAT (DA-ASAT) weapons, as the intercepted missile reached an altitude solidly within very low Earth orbit.
CSIS: Growing Counterspace Threats from Non-State Actors
The past year has seen a continuation of non-state actor activity associated with large-scale conflicts, such as Russia's war on Ukraine and the involvement of Iran-backed groups in the Middle East. GhostSec, an Anonymous-affiliated cyber hacktivist group, targeted GNSS receivers related to Russian and Israeli infrastructure, while hackers claiming affiliation with the Wagner Group reported disrupting Russian satellite communications networks. Regional indiscriminate jamming has become increasingly common in conflicts, with jamming devices being a popular tool for both state and non-state actors due to their affordability and effectiveness. Hamas reportedly used jamming to support its 7 October 2023 attack on Israel, and in the months prior, commercial airliners and business jets near Syria, Lebanon, and the Gaza strip reported spoofing attacks aimed at "denial of service rather than actual deception." Notably, interference spiked during periods of heightened conflict involving drone attacks and rocket launches. The growing use of jamming and spoofing by non-state actors in conflict zones highlights the need for increased resilience and protection of satellite-based services, as well as the importance of developing effective attribution and deterrence mechanisms to address these threats.
Iran-Israel Hostilities: The Space Dimension
Israel’s Arrow-3 Missile Defence System Intercepts Iran’s Missiles in Space
Israel has reportedly achieved a significant milestone in missile defence by successfully executing an exoatmospheric interception of a missile launched by Iran. Exoatmospheric interception, the act of intercepting a missile beyond the Earth's atmosphere in space, typically above the Kármán line at approximately 100 kilometers, is a complex process that involves detecting an incoming missile, launching an interceptor equipped with sensors and guided by ground-based radar, and ultimately destroying the target through collision. The impact of the interceptor's kill vehicle with the ballistic missile results in the disintegration of both, creating a debris cloud that disperses in the absence of atmospheric drag. While the missile warhead may persist on its original trajectory if not destroyed in the initial impact, the force of the explosion can potentially knock it off course, reducing the likelihood of detonation. Exoatmospheric interception is particularly crucial when the threatening warhead is nuclear, as it allows for the dispersion of radioactive materials in space rather than Earth's atmosphere. However, the resulting debris poses a potential threat to objects in orbit, including satellites, and could contribute to the formation of a layer of space junk. Both the United States and Israel possess the capability to execute exoatmospheric interceptions, with Israel's Arrow 3 anti-ballistic missile system specifically designed for this purpose.
U.S. SBIRS Early Warning Satellites Play Key Role in Defending Israel Against Iran Attack
The Space-Based Infrared System (SBIRS), a sophisticated satellite constellation developed by the United States at a cost of approximately $20 billion, played a critical role in Israel's defence against Iran's recent missile and drone attack. The system, equipped with highly sensitive infrared sensors, detected the launch of Iranian missiles by identifying the infrared radiation emitted from their propulsion systems. SBIRS satellites, positioned in geostationary orbit, relayed real-time data to the Missile Warning Centre at the U.S. Space Command's Joint Operations Centre, where the information was analysed and shared with the Israel Defense Force (IDF). This early warning and threat assessment enabled the IDF to efficiently deploy its air defence systems, including the Iron Dome, Patriot missiles, and Arrow anti-missile missiles. As a result, according to IDF Brigadier General Daniel Hagari, 99% of the aerial threats, which included approximately 120 ballistic missiles, 30 cruise missiles, and 170 drones, were successfully intercepted and shot down before reaching Israeli territory. The incident highlights the crucial role of advanced space-based early warning systems in modern defence strategies and the effectiveness of international cooperation in countering missile threats.
Israel Actively Jams GNSS Signals to Confuse Iran’s Missiles and Drones
Israel reportedly employed electronic warfare tactics, including GPS signal jamming in Tel Aviv, in the days leading up to Iran's 300-strong missile strike. The move was intended to confuse and divert the attackers, who were believed to be using Russian GLONASS satellite navigation system to overcome the jamming. While this defensive measure caused inconvenience and confusion among Israeli locals, with some reporting their GPS showing them to be in Cairo or Beirut, it was deemed a vital tool in Israel's defensive capabilities. Despite the jamming efforts, Iran launched a fierce bombardment lasting around five hours, marking the first direct military assault by Tehran on Israel. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) claimed to have intercepted '99 percent' of the missiles, which included over 120 ballistic missiles, 170 drones, and more than 30 cruise missiles, through the use of their Iron Dome air and missile defence system and assistance from allies such as the UK and the United States. In response to the attack, Israel has approved operational plans for both offensive and defensive action, with President Isaac Herzog warning of potential retaliation and emphasising the need to protect the Israeli people. The escalating tensions have raised concerns about the stability of the Middle East, with Israel reportedly striking a building belonging to Hezbollah in east Lebanon as a sign of potential retaliation.
Other News
Armenia Plans to Increase Number of Satellites
Armenia is set to expand its presence in space, with plans to increase its satellite count to three in the coming years, as announced by Mkhitar Hayrapetyan, the Minister of High-Tech Industry, during a recent press conference. The minister emphasised the country's commitment to space activity as a priority domain, highlighting the role of Armenia's first satellite, ArmSat-1, in conducting Earth observation and enriching the knowledge of Armenian specialists in various fields such as engineering, artificial intelligence, robotics, and quantum technologies. To support this endeavour, the Armenian government intends to further increase funding in the education sector, recognising the importance of developing expertise in these critical areas. The move signifies Armenia's growing ambition to establish itself as a player in the space industry and its dedication to fostering technological advancements through investments in education and research.
Israel Space Agency Signs MoU with Space ISAC to Bolster Space Cybersecurity
The Israel Space Agency (ISA) and the U.S.-based Space ISAC (Information Sharing and Analysis Center) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to foster collaboration in the field of space cybersecurity. The agreement, signed during the 39th Space Symposium in Colorado, United States, aims to promote new research and technological development opportunities to address the growing risks posed by cybersecurity threats to space-based assets. As space technology becomes increasingly critical for everyday life, including communication and navigation, the potential impact of cyberattacks on satellites and infrastructure has become more severe. The partnership between ISA and Space ISAC, which serves as a focal point for collaboration among global space industry players, is expected to enhance Israel's ability to deal with threats to space assets and expand its knowledge in space cybersecurity. The move also highlights Israel's strong international position in science, innovation, and the space industry. Both organisations anticipate that this milestone will promote international cooperation and contribute to the execution of Space ISAC's mission of protecting space-based assets, with Israel's technological capabilities and tradition of innovation being seen as a powerful contribution to this endeavour.
UAE’s BITS Pilani Dubai Campus Establishes Satellite Ground Station
In a significant stride towards enhancing its space technology capabilities, BITS Pilani Dubai Campus (BPDC), in Dubai, UAE, has successfully installed and launched its ground station, specifically designed to track amateur and educational satellites. The inauguration of the station was marked by the reception of its first image from the NOAA-19 satellite, capturing valuable weather data. Equipped with state-of-the-art features, including two high-gain cross-polarised yagi antennas operating in VHF and UHF bands and digitally controlled rotors for autonomous satellite tracking, the ground station enables real-time communication with satellites passing over the BPDC campus horizon. The inclusion of an omnidirectional antenna further expands the station's capabilities in meteorological research by facilitating the reception of weather data from satellites like those operated by the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). This milestone underscores BPDC's commitment to providing students with cutting-edge resources and practical experience in satellite communication, positioning the institution at the forefront of space technology education and research.
UAE’s MBRSC Selects Etihad Airline Pilot for NASA Analog Mission
The UAE’s Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC) has announced the selection of Emirati crew member Shareef Al Romaithi for the second analog study of the UAE Analog Programme, as part of NASA's Human Exploration Research Analog (HERA) Campaign 7 Mission 2. Al Romaithi, a highly experienced Etihad airline pilot with extensive expertise in aerospace engineering and aviation, will join the primary crew for a 45-day mission in the HERA habitat at NASA's Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas. The habitat replicates space-like conditions on Earth, allowing scientists to study how crew members adapt to isolation, confinement, and remote conditions before embarking on deep space missions. The UAE's participation in this groundbreaking scientific research, conducted in collaboration with leading universities such as UAE University, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, and American University of Sharjah (AUS), highlights the country's pivotal role in advancing human space exploration. The insights gained from these Earth-based simulations will be instrumental in preparing humanity for future missions to the Moon, Mars, and beyond while showcasing the UAE's commitment to pushing the boundaries of space exploration and inspiring future generations to be part of the space sector.
Türkiye’s IMECE Earth Observation Satellite Marks One Year in Orbit
Türkiye's space industry has achieved a significant milestone with the successful completion of the first year in orbit for IMECE, the country's first indigenously developed high-resolution Earth observation satellite. Launched on 15 April 2023, as part of Türkiye's ambitious 10-year space roadmap, IMECE showcases the country's growing capabilities in space technology, with all of its key components, including the high-resolution electro-optic camera, being domestically produced. The satellite's mission has demonstrated Türkiye's proficiency in this field, paving the way for future projects such as the upcoming launch of Türksat-6A, the country's first indigenously-built national communications satellite, scheduled for the week of 8 July 2024. The successful development and deployment of Türksat-6A will position Türkiye among the elite group of 11 countries worldwide capable of developing their own communications satellites, further cementing its status as a rising power in the global space industry.
Saudi Arabia’s CST Issues Earth Observation Regulations and Permit Application Documents
Saudi Arabia’s Communications and Space Technology Commission (CST) has issued its "Earth Observation (EO) Platform Regulations," and, "Application for Obtaining a Permit to Provide Earth Observation (EO) Platform Service" documents, marking a significant step towards fostering the growth of the private sector in the satellite Earth Observation services market. By granting the first permit in the space sector to an entity responsible for establishing and operating an electronic platform for collecting and processing EO data, CST aims to create a conducive environment for the development of value-added products and services. This initiative is expected to stimulate the private sector's contribution to the Kingdom's GDP through the establishment of links between EO data providers and value-added service providers. The application document outlines the requirements and obligations for prospective permit applicants, ensuring user rights, data trading safety, and preservation. CST encourages interested parties to review the documents and submit their applications for the permit, marking a significant milestone in the growth and development of the EO services market in Saudi Arabia.
Iran Says Several Earth Observation Satellites Scheduled for Launch
Issa Zarepour, Iran's Minister of Information and Communication Technology, has announced significant advancements in the country's satellite programme, with several satellites ready for launch and a focus on enhancing national Earth observation capabilities. The ongoing construction of the Pars-I satellite and plans to increase the number of low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellites are expected to provide more consistent access to data and information, despite the limitations posed by the high speeds of LEO satellites. Zarepour emphasised the complexity of satellite system development, a capability possessed by only a few countries worldwide, and expressed pride in Iranian scientists achieving this expertise. The minister's optimism for the country's progress in telecommunication and imaging satellites this year follows the successful launch of the Nour-3 imaging satellite in September 2023, which was put into orbit using the domestically developed Qassed satellite launch vehicle. Iran's position among the top 10 countries capable of developing and launching satellites highlights its growing presence in the global space industry and the potential for further advancements in the coming years.
UAE-Based ABS Global Appoints Mark Rigolle as New CEO
ABS Global has announced another leadership transition, with satellite industry veteran Mark Rigolle taking over as CEO effective 29 April 2024. Rigolle, who most recently served as COO for the proposed Rivada Space Networks LEO constellation, replaces Amit Somani who departed for Yahsat after less than two years at the helm. The move comes amid broader strategic shifts for the Dubai-based regional operator, which recently rebranded from Asia Broadcast Satellite to Agility Beyond Space and relocated its headquarters from Hong Kong. ABS is under new ownership, though details remain undisclosed, as the company looks to forge fresh industry partnerships to "unlock the hidden value" of its satellite spectrum rights and orbital slots across Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and Asia Pacific. With growing competition from LEO megaconstellations, Rigolle's experience spanning GEO, MEO, and LEO is viewed as an asset as ABS navigates this "pivotal time" and "rapid market evolution."
Syria’s First Cosmonaut, Muhammed Faris, Passes Away Aged 72
Muhammed Faris, the first Syrian cosmonaut and second Arab to fly into space, passed away on Friday, 19 April 2024, at the age of 72 due to a long illness while living as a refugee in Türkiye since 2012. Faris made history in 1987 when he launched on Soyuz TM-3 as part of the Soviet Union's Interkosmos programme, becoming the first foreign national to visit the space station Mir. During his week-long mission, Faris conducted observations of Syria from orbit, participated in scientific experiments, and carried a vial of soil from Damascus, marking the first time Earth's dirt was brought into space. After his spaceflight, Faris continued to serve in the Syrian military until defecting in 2012. Living in exile, he expressed hope for a change in the Syrian regime that would allow him and other refugees to return home. Faris' historic achievement as a space pioneer and his dedication to his country will be remembered as an important part of Syria's rich history.
AMADEE-24 Mars Analog Mission Successfully Concludes in Armenia
The month-long AMADEE-24 Mars Analog Mission, organised by the Armenian Aerospace Agency and the Armenian Space Forum in collaboration with the Austrian Space Forum, has concluded successfully in Armash, Armenia. The mission, which involved over 250 scientists from 26 countries, marks a significant milestone in the field of analog space technology research and represents a crucial step toward human exploration of Mars. The Imaginary Mars, or Armash Mars Analog Station, served as the setting for a team of highly trained analog astronauts to conduct 13 experiments involving various rovers and robotics, focusing on areas such as gene research, astronaut performance, health monitoring, and autonomous cultivation systems for long-term space missions. The project, while challenging, proved feasible and serves as a stepping stone towards even more significant initiatives in the future. The Armash Mars Analog Research Station will continue to operate, preparing for new large-scale programmes. The mission's success highlights Armenia's integration into European and global scientific circles and its growing role in driving forward space exploration programmes. The collaboration between the Armenian initiative group and the Austrian Space Forum symbolises the importance of international cooperation in advancing space research and paving the way for future missions to Mars.
Yahsat’s Thuraya-3 Communications Satellite Suffers Payload Anomaly
Yahsat, the UAE’s leading satellite services provider, has announced that services on its Thuraya-3 (T3) communications satellite will remain significantly diminished for an extended period following an unexpected payload anomaly that occurred on Monday, 15 April 2024. The anomaly has caused an ongoing service outage affecting both voice and packet services, primarily impacting South and East Asia and the Pacific region. Despite implementing standard incident management procedures and conducting investigations in collaboration with the satellite manufacturer, most recovery options have been exhausted. Thuraya is working to restore services in some markets within the next few days and further geographies in the coming weeks. While the satellite remains safe and under control, a financial impact assessment has been initiated, and the results will be communicated to the market as required. This incident highlights the challenges faced by satellite operators in maintaining uninterrupted services and the importance of robust contingency plans to minimise the impact of such anomalies on end-users.
Recommended Reading
Regional Investors Make Case for Middle East Commercial Space
In Arabian Business, Bogdan Gogulan and Hassan Karimi write that the Middle East, particularly the UAE and Saudi Arabia, is making significant strides in the space industry, recognising its immense potential for economic growth, sustainability, and defence. The region's space ambitions have been highlighted by recent milestones, such as the first Arab spacewalk by Emirati astronaut Sultan Al Neyadi and Saudi Arabia sending two astronauts to the International Space Station. Both countries are investing heavily in space technology, with the UAE entering into space tourism, considering space mining legislation, and fostering a thriving space ecosystem through initiatives like the Hub71 technology park. Saudi Arabia, meanwhile, plans to conduct experiments in space, focusing on areas such as pharmaceutical research, cloud seeding, and artificial rain creation. The space industry's impact on the global economy is substantial, with space-enabled technologies driving efficiency and productivity across various sectors. Moreover, space technology plays a crucial role in combating the climate crisis, with satellite-based solutions contributing to significant reductions in carbon emissions and improved sustainability in agriculture. As the Middle East faces the need to diversify its economies and create jobs resilient to the AI revolution and the transition to cleaner energy, investing in the space sector has become a strategic priority. Mubadala's recent announcement to invest in AI and space technology underscores the region's commitment to capitalising on the vast opportunities presented by the space industry, supporting energy transition, agricultural sustainability, and resilience in the face of global challenges.
A Call for Regional Space Cooperation Amidst Middle East Tensions
The Golden Records carried by the Voyager-1 and -2 probes, now 15 billion miles from Earth, stand as a testament to the spirit of optimism, global communion, and the hope for interstellar connection, writes Amahl Shakhashiri Drake, who voiced the Arabic greeting for the Voyager probes, for the Middle East Institute blog. However, the current state of conflict in the Middle East, marked by war, famine, and destruction, stands in stark contrast to the values embodied in these records. Despite this, the history of space exploration offers a glimmer of hope, as it has consistently fostered international collaboration even amidst global tensions. The United States and Russia, despite their tumultuous relationship, have continued to cooperate in space missions, while the emergence of new space-faring countries in the Middle East, such as the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia, has opened up new avenues for cooperation and inclusion. The Artemis Accords, signed by several Middle Eastern countries, further underscores the commitment to peaceful space exploration and collaboration. Moreover, the groundbreaking achievements of Arab women in space, such as Rayyanah Barnawi and Norah al-Matroohsi, serve as powerful symbols of progress and inspiration. While space research alone cannot solve the complex issues plaguing the Middle East, it demonstrates the potential for international collaboration to thrive even in the face of adversity, offering a model for cooperation across differences and a reason for renewed hope.
ICEYE’s Jamil Kawar Lauds UAE’s Regional New Space Leadership
Jamil Kawar, ICEYE’s vice president for missions in the Middle East and North Africa, writes in Tahawul Tech that the UAE is at the forefront of the New Space economy, with Earth observation satellites playing a crucial role in driving economic growth and opening new opportunities. The local market for satellite technology is expected to grow at a compound annual rate of 8.55% over the next five years, largely due to innovations in synthetic aperture radar (SAR) satellites. These advanced satellites offer clear imaging capabilities during both day and night, as well as in adverse weather conditions, thanks to their ability to penetrate cloud cover, smoke, and other environmental factors. The latest generation of SAR satellites boasts a smaller, more agile design, enabling daily revisits to the same location and high-resolution imaging down to centimeter-level detail. The miniaturised, active-phased array sensors and smaller satellite platforms have significantly reduced costs, making larger satellite constellations feasible and enabling persistent monitoring of areas of interest every 24 hours. This breakthrough in Earth observation technology has opened up new use cases for the UAE, such as border and port monitoring, maritime activity surveillance, and real-time oil spill tracking. As the UAE explores various options to capitalize on the New Space economy, these technological advancements in satellite innovation will play a vital role in protecting its citizens, national interests, and local environment.
Analyst: BRICS Countries, Including Saudi Arabia and UAE, Lead Moon Competition
In the International Policy Digest, analyst Scott Firsing writes that the Artemis programme, which aims to return Americans to the Moon, faces altered timelines due to technical and logistical challenges with SpaceX’s Starship and Lockheed Martin's Orion spacecraft. The earliest possible Moon landing has been deferred to late 2026, with a crewed lunar orbit planned for no earlier than September 2025. Meanwhile, the geopolitical landscape of space exploration is witnessing a growing alliance within the BRICS consortium, with nations such as Saudi Arabia, Egypt, the United Arab Emirates, Iran, and Ethiopia discussing support for collaborative lunar ventures led by China and Russia. This shift in international cooperation is further exemplified by the European Space Agency severing its Russian partnerships in response to the conflict in Ukraine, while Beijing maintains its collaborative efforts with Moscow. Russia, too, is seeking to re-establish its autonomy in space, with plans for a new orbital platform and potential partnerships within the BRICS community. As the dynamics of international space cooperation evolve, the balancing act between the U.S. and China/Russia becomes increasingly complex for BRICS members like Brazil, India, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE, who are signatories of the Artemis Accords. India's recent lunar success and collaboration with the U.S. for astronaut training on the International Space Station highlight the growing international partnerships in this new age of space exploration, underscoring the necessity of space diplomacy in the face of a challenging and expensive journey to the Moon and beyond.
Analyst: Algeria, Egypt, Sudan amid U.S.-China Space Competition
In the London School of Economics LSE Blogs, Scott Firsing also writes that the United States is increasingly concerned about China's rapid progress in outer space and its expanding space diplomacy with African countries, particularly within the BRICS alliance. China's recent achievements, including lunar landings, the construction of the Tiangong space station, and successful Mars missions, have challenged U.S. leadership in space technology. Beijing has been actively cooperating with African space programmes, launching satellites for countries like Algeria, Nigeria, Sudan, Ethiopia, and Egypt, while also providing support for ground stations and satellite assembly facilities. China's plans to involve its BRICS allies in the International Lunar Research Station (ILRS) project, with South Africa already joining the initiative, further highlight the growing space cooperation within the BRICS framework. However, South Africa maintains strong ties with the U.S. in space exploration, as evidenced by the renewal of their partnership in lunar exploration and the establishment of a new communications site to support NASA's Artemis missions. As the U.S. and China compete for influence in the global space arena, both countries are likely to continue leveraging their space capabilities to foster partnerships with African countries and support their development agendas. While this competition may raise concerns, it also presents opportunities for increased investment in education and technology in Africa, which could be welcomed by African leaders as a departure from the historical focus on aid or military-related projects.
Be sure to catch up with space activities in the region in the next edition of Middle East Space Monitor’s space roundup!