Middle East Space Roundup: 4 to 10 November 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 Launches Space Communications Initiative at SAASST
The University of Sharjah hosts workshops and lectures to boost collaboration in space communications.
Under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah and President of the University of Sharjah (UoS), the University, in collaboration with the Arab Union for Astronomy and Space Science (AUASS) and the Asia-Pacific Space Cooperation Organisation (APSCO), organized an event titled "Space Communications Kicks Off at SAASST."
The event held on 7th November, 2024 featured a series of lectures and workshops aimed at enhancing knowledge and awareness of space communications. Experts from various organizations shared insights into the latest developments and technologies in the field. This initiative underscores the UAE's commitment to advancing space science and technology, fostering international collaboration, and preparing the next generation for deep space exploration.
The Sharjah Academy for Astronomy, Space Sciences, and Technology (SAASST) continues to play a pivotal role in the UAE's space sector, contributing to scientific research and technological advancements.
UAE Space News
Space42 PLC Reports 17.5% Profit Increase Despite Revenue Decline
UAE-based space tech company #Space42 has reported a 17.5% year-on-year rise in its profit attributable to shareholders to $118.8 million for the first nine months of 2024 despite a 7.2% drop in revenue, which totaled $428.5 million. The company's adjusted EBITDA declined by 5.7% to $229.9 million, while operating profit rose 22.7% to $107.5 million. Net finance income increased 18% to $17.9 million. Space42's total comprehensive income grew 3.4% to $103 million. The strong performance was attributed to the successful merger between telecom operator Bayanat and satellite communications firm Yahsat, completed on October 1, 2024. The company’s shares remained steady at 57 cents, with a market cap of $2.7 billion. Space42’s strategic focus is on profitable growth, leveraging new capabilities and opportunities in areas like direct-to-device, IoT, and advanced analytics.
Abu Dhabi Space Debate 2024: Shaping the Future of Global Space Exploration
The Abu Dhabi Space Debate, taking place 10-11 December 2024, is set to be a landmark event for the global space community. Established under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, this two-day forum will bring together leaders from industry, government, and academia to address critical issues and opportunities in space exploration. Key themes for the debate include Space Sustainability, which will focus on strategies for debris mitigation and space traffic management, and Expanding Horizons, aimed at making space more accessible to all nations by lowering barriers to entry and fostering global collaboration. Additionally, the event will explore Securing the Future, highlighting the need for frameworks to protect space infrastructure and ensure peaceful exploration.
As the UAE continues to solidify its space ambitions, the Abu Dhabi Space Debate will showcase the nation’s growing influence in space exploration, particularly through initiatives like the Lunar Airlock program and the establishment of EDGE Group’s space company, FADA. These efforts are aligned with the UAE’s broader space strategy, which emphasizes sustainability, collaboration, and innovation in the space sector. The event will further underscore the UAE’s role in shaping the future of space exploration, fostering partnerships that will contribute to a secure, sustainable, and inclusive space economy. Source: Gulf News.
Saudi Arabia Space Developments
The International Forum on Connecting the World from the Skies: 25 – 26 November 2024, in Riyadh
Hosted by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and the Communications, Space & Technology Commission (CST) of Saudi Arabia, the event will once again bring together policymakers, industry leaders, and technical experts from across the world to discuss the continued evolution of Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTNs) and the key role they are playing in shaping the future of global connectivity. With the increasing convergence of non-terrestrial and terrestrial connectivity that is being seen, the event will discuss the challenges and the opportunities ahead, exploring collaborative solutions that are emerging to deliver seamless connectivity and unlock a future of boundless possibilities. Featured companies speaking include: World Economic Forum, SpaceX, SES S.A., Axiom Space, UNOOSA, Aramco, Neo Space Group, Apple, Arabsat, Eutelsat, and Mohammed bin Rashid Space Centre. More on this event.
VCPEA and CST Host Virtual Session on Investment in Space Tech
The Saudi Venture Capital and Private Equity Association (VCPEA), in collaboration with the Communications, Space & Technology Commission (CST), hosted a virtual session to discuss investment opportunities in space technology, Nov 5 2024. Moderated by Eng. Waleed Alsaleh, the session featured a distinguished panel, including Bülent Altan Co-foudner and Managing Partner of Alpine Space Ventures, who provided expert insights on the role of investors in supporting space tech startups. This event is a valuable opportunity to explore Saudi Arabia’s growing space ecosystem and the investment potential in the sector.
Space Sector Shines at Biban 2024 with Growing Focus and Garage Disrupt Day
At Biban 2024, space sector innovation took center stage, marking a significant evolution in its presence at the event. Key developments included the Garage Disrupt Day held on Nov 10th, where startups showcased cutting-edge space technologies, demonstrating Saudi Arabia’s increasing focus on space as a critical industry. This growing emphasis on space aligns with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 goals of economic diversification, highlighting the sector's pivotal role in fostering entrepreneurship and technological advancement.
Saudi Space Agency Meets Turkish Counterpart to Discuss Strategic Collaboration
The Saudi Space Agency meets with its Turkish counterpart to explore potential areas of collaboration in alignment with the strategic goals of both organizations. This included a visit to the headquarters of the Turkish Space Agency (TUA), aimed at fostering innovation and growth in the space sector.🇸🇦🇹🇷
A delegation from the Saudi Space Agency met with the leadership of Aselsan, a leading company in advanced technologies. The discussions focused on potential joint cooperation and opportunities to strengthen international collaboration in space technology. This took place during the agency's visit to the Republic of Turkey.
Israel Space News
Space Campus IL: Empowering the Next Generation of Space Innovators in Israel
The Rakia Mission, in collaboration with the Israel Space Agency (ISA), is launching Space Campus IL, a new initiative aimed at fostering the next generation of space leaders in Israel. Designed for students passionate about space, Space Campus IL will serve as a vital platform to drive the country's space ecosystem forward. Its mission is to connect young minds with the space industry, promote space studies in academia, and lead both local and international collaborations. Founded with support from the Israel Space Agency at the Ministry of Innovation, Science, and Technology, this initiative partners with leading Israeli institutions, including Tel Aviv University, the Technion, the Hebrew University, Afeka College, and Ben-Gurion University of the Negev. It invites additional academic institutions to join. The community will provide a range of resources, including mentoring, networking opportunities, participation in conferences, and access to career pathways in both Israeli and international space academia and industries.
Israeli Accelerator Will Support 5 Startups Trying to Integrate into the Artemis Program
The Israeli accelerator EXPAND is supporting five innovative startups focused on integrating into NASA's Artemis program, which aims to establish a sustainable human presence on the Moon. These startups, selected for their potential in various space-related technologies, are being mentored and provided with resources to refine their products. The accelerator is part of a collaboration between Israel's space community and industry experts to foster the development of technologies that could contribute to the Artemis missions. The startups include ventures in robotics, materials, construction, food, and health technologies, all of which are crucial for sustaining life and infrastructure in space.
Featured Stories
Space AI is Having a Moment By Douglas Gorman, November 7, 2024
AI is rapidly reshaping space exploration, from enhancing satellite data analysis to optimizing space operations. Companies are using AI for everything from Earth observation to improving Mars rover navigation. This technology is transforming how space missions operate, increasing efficiency and enabling better decision-making. As the space industry faces growing data challenges, AI promises to be a key driver of innovation, revolutionizing both current and future space technologies.
For more insights, read here.
What Will New Trump Presidency Mean for Space Policy Globally?
Many agree that Trump 45 was good for commercial space. Trump 47’s space platform says he will go even farther, but will it be enough? 2024 Beyond Earth Symposium. Tue Nov 12, 2024 1:00 PM - Wed Nov 13, 2024 5:00 PM EST American University Washington School of Law, Claudio Grossman Hall, 4300 Nebraska Ave, NW Washington, DC.
Latin America Strikes a Delicate Balance in the China-US Space Race By Ana Soliz de Stange
The article from The Diplomat discusses how Latin American countries are navigating the growing space race between the U.S. and China, with implications for their national strategies. As both superpowers compete for influence, Latin American nations are increasingly aligning with China for its space and satellite technology investments, even as they maintain ties with the U.S. in other sectors. This dual engagement offers significant opportunities for the region to develop its space capabilities, but also presents challenges related to geopolitical tensions and balancing international partnerships.
For further details, you can read the full article here.
Other Space News
Other significant developments in the global space and satellite sector include:
Space National Guard Could Become Reality Under Donald Trump;
Globalstar is already working on the new satellite constellation program for Apple, Globalstar CEO Paul Jacobs told investors in the company’s third quarter call on Nov. 7
US Space Command’s Commercial Integration Cell to Grow Beyond 17 Companies;
Hypersonic engine developer Reaction Engines enters administration as efforts to secure £20 million of additional funding fail;
China planning to build its own version of SpaceX's Starship;
Rocket Lab launches mystery mission on company's 12th launch of 2024;
Australian company Gilmour Space gets country's 1st orbital launch license Nov 9;
AzurX Space Ventures attends the second annual NYSE Space Summit, reflections by Jennifer Warren;
The Space Investor Summit 2024 has officially sold out, reflecting the growing interest and demand for investment opportunities in the space industry.
Be sure to catch up with space activities in the region in the next edition of Middle East Space Monitor’s space roundup!