Middle East Space Roundup: 19 to 25 August 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:
UAE University’s ALainSat-1 Shipped for October 2024 Launch
The United Arab Emirates University (UAEU) has taken a significant step towards advancing its space capabilities with the signing of the transport fund for ALainSat-1, the university's first satellite project. Set for launch in October 2024, this initiative is part of a broader national strategy to enhance the UAE's position in space science and technology. Zaki Nusseibeh, Cultural Adviser to the UAE President and UAEU Chancellor, emphasised the project's importance in supporting national space sector development and fostering international scientific collaboration. The satellite, developed through a partnership between UAEU and international collaborators, will focus on Earth observation, providing crucial data for environmental research and innovative solutions. This project not only contributes to the UAE's space ambitions but also serves as a platform for developing skills among Emirati youth in the field of space technology. The ALainSat-1 mission, which will conduct radiation measurements and vegetation cover analysis, is expected to enhance UAEU's research capabilities and international reputation in space science.
Türkiye’s Plan-S Launches Four Connecta IoT Satellites, Reveals Earth Observations Plans
Plan-S, a leading Turkish satellite and space technology company, has successfully launched four Connecta IoT satellites aboard SpaceX's Falcon 9 rocket, marking its transition from testing to full-scale operational capability. This launch is the first step in deploying the Connecta IoT Network constellation, aimed at solving critical global Internet of Things (IoT) connectivity issues across various sectors. The company plans to rapidly scale its constellation to over 200 satellites in the near future, with additional launches scheduled for October 2024 and beyond. Plan-S is also expanding into Earth observation, with plans to launch a dedicated satellite in 2025. This development represents a significant advancement in Türkiye's space technology sector and positions Plan-S as a key player in the global IoT and Earth observation markets. The successful deployment of these satellites underscores the company's growing capabilities and its potential to drive innovation in satellite-based communications and data services.
Türkiye’s Türksat-6A Completing On-Orbit Tests, Operational by October 2024
Türkiye's first domestically built communication satellite, Türksat-6A, is nearing its final operational phase with expected placement in its 42 degrees East orbit by the end of October 2024. Currently undergoing successful testing at 50 degrees East, the satellite represents a significant milestone in Türkiye's space technology capabilities, making it one of only 11 countries able to produce communication satellites. The project, a collaborative effort involving multiple Turkish companies and agencies, has achieved over 80% domestic production of components. This achievement not only reduces Türkiye's foreign dependency on critical satellite technologies but also fosters the development of a skilled workforce and a robust satellite production ecosystem. Once operational, Türksat-6A is expected to significantly boost Türkiye's satellite capacity, expand coverage to new regions, and position the country as a competitive player in the global satellite industry. The successful development and launch of Türksat-6A underscore Türkiye's growing capabilities in space technology and its ambition to become a major player in the international space sector.
3rd Edition of Katara Space Science Programme Concludes in Qatar
The 3rd edition of the Katara Space Science Programme (KSSP) in Qatar has concluded successfully, attracting over 600 participants from 101 schools and 34 nationalities. Organised by MAPS International in collaboration with Katara Cultural Village, the three-day event focused on the James Webb Space Telescope and featured distinguished speakers from NASA, the Canadian Space Agency, and the University of Sharjah. The programme included hands-on activities such as building prototype telescopes and stargazing sessions at Al Thuraya Planetarium. A highlight was the construction of over 300 scientific refractor box telescopes by participants. The event also showcased the "Cosmic Canvas: Space Art Exhibition," featuring works by 21 artists, including NASA prints and holographic art. This initiative, aimed at fostering interest in space science and STEM among students and enthusiasts, reflects Qatar's commitment to scientific education and international collaboration in the space sector. The diverse participation and range of activities underscore the growing global interest in space science education and its potential to inspire future generations of scientists and researchers.
Satellite Data Revolutionising Economic Intelligence Across the Middle East
Satellite imagery and data are increasingly being leveraged for economic monitoring and business intelligence across various sectors. With over 9,900 active satellites orbiting Earth, the wealth of data they provide is revolutionising how researchers, governments, and businesses analyse economic activity and make strategic decisions. Satellite-derived night light data has proven to be a reliable proxy for GDP and economic growth, particularly useful in regions where traditional statistical data is lacking or unreliable. Daytime satellite imagery is being utilised to track agricultural yields, port activity, and urban development. The financial sector, including hedge funds and insurers, is increasingly using satellite data to inform investment decisions and assess risks. Environmental monitoring through satellites is also gaining importance in sustainable finance and climate risk assessment. The Middle East is emerging as a significant player in the space economy, with companies like Bayanat in the UAE leading the way in providing AI-powered geospatial solutions. As the technology advances and costs decrease, the integration of satellite data with AI is expected to unlock new possibilities for economic analysis and business intelligence across various industries.
UAE’s AzurX Space Ventures Leads Series A Funding Round for UK’s Space Intelligence
Space Intelligence, a leader in satellite-derived nature mapping, has secured Series A funding led by UAE’s AzurX Space Ventures with participation from Intercontinental Exchange, Inc. (ICE). The company plans to use this $7 million investment to expand its global forest mapping catalogue, supporting forest carbon projects and corporate supply chain monitoring. Founded by remote sensing experts Dr. Murray Collins and Professor Ed Mitchard, Space Intelligence has grown to over 50 employees and aims to cover more than 35 additional countries by Q2 2025, creating the largest audit-grade nature mapping dataset available. The company's approach combines geospatial analysis, ecological expertise, and artificial intelligence to provide accurate, independent data on land and forest cover. With new products for near real-time deforestation and degradation monitoring set for release in Q4, Space Intelligence is positioned to play a crucial role in addressing climate and biodiversity challenges through improved data-driven decision-making and reporting in the carbon markets and environmental compliance sectors. The company was seeded in 2022 by Equinor, Norway’s NOC. (Note that AzurX, the parent company of AzurX Space Ventures, publishes the Middle East Space Monitor).
Azerbaijan in Talks with Starlink to Deliver Satellite Broadband Internet
Azerbaijan's Minister of Digital Development and Transport, Rashad Nabiyev, has engaged in discussions with Starlink's Director for Global Licensing and Market Activation, Rebecca Slick Hunter, regarding the potential implementation of Starlink's satellite broadband internet services in the country. This meeting builds upon previous exploratory talks between Azerbaijan and Starlink, including discussions between Minister Nabiyev and SpaceX founder Elon Musk last year, which covered Starlink's planned activities in Azerbaijan and the possibility of launching Azerbaijani-owned satellites. These ongoing dialogues highlight Azerbaijan's interest in advancing its telecommunications infrastructure and space capabilities, potentially positioning the country to benefit from cutting-edge satellite internet technology. The discussions also underscore Starlink's continued efforts to expand its global reach and Azerbaijan's proactive approach to enhancing its digital connectivity.
Oman’s SatMENA Positioning for Regional MEO SATCOM Market
SatMENA, Oman’s satellite communications company, is positioning itself as a key player in the region's satellite technology sector. Led by Chief Commercial Officer Ammar Al Rawahi, the company offers high-speed satellite connectivity of up to 1Gbps, leveraging advanced infrastructure including a Muscat Teleport with a 6.3-meter auto-tracking antenna. SatMENA's growth strategy focuses on expanding coverage, developing innovative solutions, and forming strategic partnerships, particularly with SES as the first SES-partnered commercially open geostationary satellite gateway in the Middle East and North Africa. The company is preparing to integrate medium Earth orbit (MEO) constellations to enhance service quality and is collaborating with the Omani government to achieve national connectivity goals. SatMENA aims to expand its services beyond Oman into the wider region, targeting Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries and North Africa. The company is also addressing sustainability through eco-friendly operations and exploring renewable energy sources. As satellite connectivity transforms work and business operations in remote areas, SatMENA is poised to play a crucial role in driving digital transformation and economic growth in the region.
Iran Set to Launch 14 Satellites, More Satellites in Development by Private Sector
The Iranian Space Agency (ISA) has reported significant progress in its space programme over the past three years, according to its head, Hossein Salariyeh. The agency is currently developing 30 indigenous satellites, with 20 of these being built by the private sector, indicating a growing collaboration between government and commercial entities. Since August 2021, Iran has successfully launched 12 satellites into orbit and has plans for 14 more launches. This acceleration in satellite design and manufacturing is attributed to joint projects with the private sector. Iran's achievements include the successful launch of the Mahda research satellite and the Soraya satellite, placed in a 750 km orbit. These developments, achieved despite Western sanctions, have positioned Iran among the world's top 10 nations in satellite development and launch capabilities. The country's progress in civilian space technology, including the development of indigenous launch vehicles like Simorgh and Qaem-100, underscores Iran's commitment to advancing its space programme and enhancing its technological self-reliance.
Israel’s NSLComm Applies for FCC License to Launch BeetleSat SATCOM Constellation
Israel’s NSLComm has submitted a proposal to the U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) for its BeetleSat system, seeking permission to launch and access the U.S. market. The ambitious project involves deploying 344 small Ka-band satellites, with 264 orbiting at 720 km and 80 at 810 km. These lightweight 9 kg satellites, each capable of handling 8 Gb/s of data, aim to provide high-throughput, low-latency communications services. NSLComm claims their system, utilising large antennas, will be 100 times more efficient than current operations, offering Gigabit-per-second bandwidth. Led by industry veterans Patricio Northland and Moshe Golani, the company plans to manufacture the satellites in 2024-2025, launch in 2026, and achieve full deployment by 2027. This development represents a significant advancement in small satellite technology and could potentially disrupt the satellite communications market with its high-efficiency, cost-effective approach.
Israel Space Forum Makes National and International Impact
Israel’s space technology sector has experienced significant growth, with investments reaching $314 million in 2023. In response to this expanding landscape, the Israel Space Forum was launched in April 2024, a collaborative initiative between the Rakia mission and the Israel Space Agency. This new organisation aims to foster a sustainable space ecosystem in Israel by bringing together space enthusiasts, entrepreneurs, companies, and researchers. Executive Director Melody Korman highlights the forum's inclusive approach, emphasising its role in facilitating partnerships, promoting research opportunities, and showcasing Israeli innovation on the global stage. The forum is actively engaged in international collaborations, including participation in Axiom Space's Access Program and organising Israel's first national pavilion at the upcoming International Astronautical Conference in Milan. These efforts underscore Israel's commitment to advancing its position in the global space industry and leveraging space technology for broader economic and scientific development.
Egypt to Establish Commercial Space Companies for Satellite Components, Imagery
The Egyptian Space Agency (EgSA) has unveiled a comprehensive plan to enhance Egypt's space capabilities, as announced by CEO Dr. Sherif Sedky. The strategy includes establishing a joint-stock company for manufacturing satellite components, creating a marketing company for EgSA products, and launching an electronic platform for satellite imagery sales. These initiatives aim to localise space technology production, boost Egypt's precision manufacturing capabilities, and support national security and technological sovereignty. The marketing company will focus on meeting domestic demand for high-quality, competitively-priced satellite images, while the online platform will provide easy access to satellite imagery for government institutions, private businesses, and research organisations. This multi-faceted approach underscores Egypt's commitment to developing its space sector, with potential implications for urban planning, environmental monitoring, and disaster management. The plan represents a significant step towards Egypt's goal of self-sufficiency in space technology and positions the country to capitalise on the economic potential of its space-related products and services.
Be sure to catch up with space activities in the region in the next edition of Middle East Space Monitor’s space roundup!
