Middle East Space Roundup: 17 to 23 June 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:
Israel’s SATCOM Sector News
Israel’s Gilat to Acquire Stellar Blu Solutions to Secure Inflight Connectivity SATCOM Market Share
Israel’s Gilat Satellite Networks has announced plans to acquire Stellar Blu Solutions, a U.S.-based aircraft equipment integration specialist, for up to $245 million. This strategic move aims to capitalise on the emerging market for multi-orbit Wi-Fi on airplanes. The acquisition will allow Gilat to leverage Stellar Blu's terminal platform, which incorporates electronically steered array (ESA) technology from Ball Aerospace, enabling aircraft to connect to geostationary and low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites in the Ku-band. The deal is expected to close by the end of 2024, subject to regulatory approvals. Gilat CEO Adi Sfadia projects that the introduction of low-profile, multi-orbit ESAs will help create an inflight connectivity (IFC) market worth between $700 million and $1 billion annually over the next decade. Stellar Blu has a backlog of nearly 800 terminals and is expected to generate annual revenues of $100-150 million by 2025. This acquisition positions Gilat to compete more effectively in the evolving IFC market, where established geostationary players are seeking to integrate low-latency LEO services to counter mounting competition from SpaceX's Starlink broadband constellation.
Israel’s SatixFy Secures $20 Million Order for SATCOM Systems
Israel’s SatixFy Communications Ltd., a leader in next-generation satellite communication systems, has secured a significant order worth over $20 million from an undisclosed customer for its Prime2 Space-Grade chips and software. This order, a follow-up to a $4 million order from September 2023, will be fulfilled over the next five quarters. The Prime2 Space-Grade chip, a digital beamformer Application-Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC), is designed for massive MIMO antennas in space and is a cornerstone for complex satellite communication systems. This groundbreaking chip is particularly significant for multi-beam low-Earth orbit (LEO) or geostationary Earth orbit (GEO) aeronautical antennas, offering unprecedented scalability, flexibility, and performance. The substantial order underscores SatixFy's position as a key player in revolutionising the space industry and the growing demand for advanced satellite communication technologies in both commercial and government sectors.
UAE Space Developments
UAE-Based LEAP 71 Tests 3D-Printed Rocket Engine Using AI Engineering Model
LEAP 71, a Dubai-based company, has successfully test-fired a 3D-printed space rocket engine powered by an artificial intelligence model called Noyron. The engine, fired for 3.5 seconds, produced 500kg of thrust and approximately 20,000 horsepower, marking a significant milestone as the first liquid rocket engine developed in the UAE. The test, conducted at Airborne Engineering in the UK, utilised cryogenic liquid oxygen and kerosene fuels, chosen for their challenging nature and similarity to fuels used in larger rockets. The Noyron AI model can autogenerate rocket engines across various thrust and propellant ranges, customising each engine without human intervention. While the computational model is considered market-ready, LEAP 71 plans to conduct further tests with different companies to refine the AI. The company has partnered with Europe's The Exploration Company and aims to revolutionise spacecraft system development by reducing costs and accelerating construction. This achievement represents a significant step forward for the AI-based engineering industry in the Emirates and positions LEAP 71 as a potential key player in the global space industry.
UAE’s Shareef Al Romaithi Nears End of NASA-Run Mars Analog Mission
Emirati pilot Shareef Al Romaithi is nearing the end of a 45-day Mars simulation mission at NASA's Human Exploration Research Analog (HERA) facility in Houston, Texas. The mission, which began on 10 May 2024, aims to examine the psychological and physiological effects of prolonged confinement and isolation during extended space travel. Al Romaithi, along with three American crew members, has been conducting 18 health experiments, including six designed by UAE universities. The simulation involves using virtual reality to "walk" on Mars and solving problems that arise on the "spaceship," with communication delays to mimic deep-space journeys. This project marks the UAE's second participation in an analog study, following Saleh Al Ameri's eight-month mission in Russia in 2022. The HERA facility, measuring 60.39 square meters, replicates a spacecraft environment, including workspaces, living quarters, and a flight deck. Al Romaithi's experience highlights the importance of teamwork and adaptability in confined spaces, skills crucial for future space missions. As the UAE continues to invest in space research and exploration, such analog missions provide valuable insights into the challenges of long-duration space travel and contribute to the country's growing expertise in the field.
UAE’s Yahsat Ranked One of Middle East’s Most Sustainable Companies
Yahsat, the UAE's flagship satellite solutions provider, has been ranked among the top ten most sustainable companies in the Middle East according to S&P Global ESG Scores, securing the 6th position in the region and 3rd in the UAE. This achievement underscores Yahsat's commitment to integrating and promoting sustainability principles across its operations and value chain. The company developed its Sustainability Framework in 2022, aligning with national, regional, and global sustainability priorities. In August 2023, Yahsat's Board approved an ESG policy aimed at making the company a pioneer in ESG within the space sector. Yahsat's sustainability efforts include deploying space technology for social and environmental protection, developing a CSR Strategy Framework, and undertaking a comprehensive carbon accounting assessment. The company is also a signatory to the United Nations Global Compact. This recognition by S&P Global reinforces Yahsat's position as a local, regional, and global sustainability leader in the satellite and space industry, demonstrating its commitment to creating positive environmental and social impact while maintaining strong governance practices.
UAE and Hungary Sign MoU on Space Exploration and Science Cooperation
The fourth session of the Joint Economic Committee (JEC) between the UAE and Hungary recently convened in Budapest, highlighting the growing economic ties between the two countries. Chaired by UAE Minister of Economy Abdullah bin Touq Al Marri and Hungarian Minister of Foreign Affairs Peter Szijjártó, the meeting emphasised Hungary's importance as an economic partner for the UAE in Eastern Europe. A significant outcome of the session was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the UAE Space Agency and the Hungarian Space Research Office, represented by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade of Hungary. This agreement aims to strengthen collaboration in space research and peaceful space activities, focusing on exchanging perspectives on space policies and regulations, as well as fostering human capital development and academic cooperation in space-related disciplines. The MoU, signed by Salem Butti Al Qubaisi, Director General of the UAE Space Agency, and Peter Szijjarto, underscores the expanding scope of bilateral cooperation beyond traditional economic sectors into high-tech and strategic areas like space exploration and research.
Arab States at COPUOS
UAE Hands Over UN COPUOS Chairmanship to Egypt
The UAE has concluded its two-year chairmanship of the UN Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (COPUOS), handing over leadership to Egypt. Omran Sharaf, former director of the UAE's Mars mission and current Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Co-operation for Advanced Science and Technology, transferred the role to Dr. Sherif Sedky, chief of the Egyptian Space Agency. The handover took place during the 67th session of COPUOS in Vienna, Austria, amid a critical time in the modern space era. The committee, operational since 1959 with 100 member states, plays a crucial role in promoting peaceful uses of space and international cooperation. The session addressed key issues such as lunar exploration, with discussions on the U.S.-led Artemis programme and China's International Lunar Research Station (ILRS). The UAE emphasised the importance of common practices and international partnerships in the space sector, as highlighted by Salem Butti Al Qubaisi, director-general of the UAE Space Agency. Additionally, the UAE Space Agency announced the second edition of the Abu Dhabi Space Debate, scheduled for December 2024, which will focus on addressing pressing challenges in the space sector and promoting international cooperation and scientific research.
Saudi Arabia Promotes Space Sustainability at 67th Session of UN COPUOS
Saudi Arabia, represented by the Communications, Space and Technology Commission (CSTC) and the Saudi Space Agency (SSA), is actively participating in the 67th session of the UN Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (COPUOS) in Vienna, Austria. The Kingdom's delegation hosted a side event titled "Saudi Arabia Towards Space: Igniting the Space Sector," attracting over 80 industry leaders and experts to discuss cooperative opportunities in advancing the global space industry. Saudi Arabia showcased its achievements and capabilities in the space sector, highlighting initiatives such as the Space Debris conference held in February 2024 and its ongoing presence in international forums. The delegation emphasised the Kingdom's commitment to enhancing space sustainability and achieving peaceful use of outer space in accordance with international principles. Saudi Arabia also presented its space exploration journey, including 14 pioneering scientific and research experiments, and discussed developments in the regulatory framework and governance of its space sector. This participation underscores Saudi Arabia's growing role in the global space industry and its commitment to international cooperation in space exploration and technology development.
COPUOS Elects First Arab Woman and Bahraini as Vice-Chair for 2025
Shaikha Hessa bint Ali Al Khalifa, a Senior Legal Researcher at Bahrain's National Space Science Agency (NSSA), has been elected as the Vice-Chair of the Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (COPUOS) for 2025 during COPUS's 67th session held by UNOOSA in Vienna, Austria, from 19 to 28 June 2024. This milestone marks the first time a Bahraini and Arab woman has attained such a position, underscoring Bahrain's growing influence in the international space arena. Dr. Mohammed Ibrahim Al Aseeri, CEO of NSSA, expressed pride in Shaikha Hessa's election, highlighting Bahrain's supportive leadership under King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and the strategic guidance of Crown Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa. Shaikha Hessa's election is seen as a testament to the status of Bahraini women regionally and internationally, bolstered by initiatives led by Princess Sabeeka bint Ibrahim Al Khalifa. Her appointment reflects Bahrain's commitment to advancing space exploration for peaceful purposes and signifies a significant step forward for Arab women in space sciences and diplomacy.
Other News
Morocco-Based ICESCO Seeks Cooperation With Russia in Space Exploration, Other Areas
The Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO), headquartered in Morocco, is actively seeking cooperation with Russia in various scientific fields, including artificial intelligence, space exploration, physics, mathematics, and environmental studies. In an exclusive interview with TASS, ICESCO Director General Salim Al Malik emphasised the organisation's role as a gateway to the Islamic world in education, science, and culture. Al Malik highlighted the importance of collaboration in these areas, particularly in science and he suggested that the Russia-Islamic World strategic vision group should expand its focus beyond political issues to include education, science, and culture. This approach, according to Al Malik, would be more beneficial for cooperation between Russia and the Islamic world. The ICESCO's initiative reflects a growing interest in fostering international scientific collaboration and leveraging Russia's expertise in advanced technologies, potentially opening new avenues for joint research and development projects between Russia and Islamic countries.
China’s Geespace Successfully Tests SATCOM Links With Oman’s Azyan Telecom
Geespace, an LEO satellite operator and subsidiary of China’s Zhejiang Geely Holding Group, has successfully tested its Geely Future Mobility Constellation network outside China for the first time in partnership with Oman-based Azyan Telecom. The test in Oman achieved a 99.15% connection success rate and over 99.97% network availability, with satellite terminals demonstrating a 50dB anti-jamming capability. Geespace aims to launch services in Oman and expand to other Middle East and North Africa countries by 2025. The company plans to build a constellation of 168 satellites, with 72 satellites operational by next year. Geespace has so far launched 21 LEO satellites in two orbital planes, with a third batch planned before the end of the year. While primarily designed to serve connected and self-driving cars, Geespace's fourth orbital plane will offer direct-to-mobile communication capabilities, positioning the company to compete with major players like SpaceX's Starlink, Lynk Global, and AST SpaceMobile in the growing satellite communications market.
Armenia in Talks With SpaceX to Deploy Starlink SATCOM Services
Armenia’s Minister of High-Tech Industry Mkhitar Hayrapetyan held a meeting with representatives from Starlink during a working visit to Washington, DC. The discussions at SpaceX offices centered on deploying the Starlink satellite system in Armenia and strategies to ensure the accessibility of advanced technologies throughout the country. Minister Hayrapetyan described the meeting as productive, emphasising the importance of Armenia's efforts to modernise its telecommunications infrastructure and potentially leverage satellite technology to overcome geographical challenges in providing widespread, high-speed internet access. This initiative aligns with global trends of countries seeking innovative solutions to bridge digital divides and foster technological advancement.
Türkiye’s Türksat-6A Undergoes Final Testing and Rocket Integration at SpaceX Launch Facility
Türkiye’s Minister of Transport and Infrastructure Abdulkadir Uraloğlu has announced that the Türksat-6A satellite, the country’s first domestically produced communications satellite, has completed its final tests at SpaceX facilities at the Cape Canaveral Space Force Station. The satellite, developed with an 81% localisation rate, is scheduled for launch in the second week of July 2024 using SpaceX's Falcon 9 rocket. After a 10-day space journey to geostationary orbit, the satellite will undergo orbital tests before becoming operational. Once in service, Türksat-6A will expand Türkiye's satellite coverage to include India, Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia, increasing the population reached by Turkish satellites from 3.5 billion to over 5 billion. This achievement will enable Türkiye to reach more than 65% of the world's population with its own communication satellites. The Türksat-6A satellite, with a power capacity of 15 kW, is expected to serve for over seven years, supporting the broadcasting industry with its Ku-band capacity. This milestone underscores Türkiye's growing capabilities in space technology and its ambition to become a significant player in the global satellite communications market.
Iran to Launch Two Satellites in July, Revitalise Human Spaceflight Programme
Iran's space ambitions are poised for further advancement with two upcoming satellite launches scheduled before 21 July 2024, as announced by Hassan Salariyeh, head of the Iranian Space Agency (ISA). Salariyeh emphasised the critical compatibility tests underway between the satellites and launch vehicles, crucial for ensuring mission success. Despite technical challenges that may cause delays, Salariyeh assured that launches would proceed only after achieving a 100% success rate in these tests. Iran's Minister of Communications, Issa Zarepour, highlighted recent milestones in the country's space sector, including the launch of 12 satellites in under two and a half years and plans for additional launches to set new records. Efforts are also underway to revive Iran's human spaceflight programme, aiming to develop human-rated capsules for future crewed space missions. Despite international sanctions, Iran continues to assert its right to peaceful technological advancement in aerospace, using satellites primarily for scientific and developmental purposes. Recent achievements include launching multiple satellites simultaneously and placing satellites in higher orbits, showcasing Iran's growing capabilities in space technology and its strategic importance in regional and global contexts.
Egypt Announces Satellite Plans for Remainder of 2024
Dr. Sherif Sedky, CEO of the Egyptian Space Agency, has announced significant advancements in Egypt's space endeavours, including the imminent launch of the African Development Satellite in collaboration with Kenya, Nigeria, and Uganda by year's end. This satellite, focused on climate change studies, sees Egypt leading the design, assembly, integration, testing, and launch efforts, with each participating country contributing to specific subsystems. Training sessions at the Egyptian Space Agency have prepared representatives from these countries for their roles in the project. Additionally, Egypt, in collaboration with Kenya, Uganda, and Nigeria, is developing a remote-sensing camera to be installed on the International Space Station, supported by UNOOSA and Airbus. This initiative underscores Egypt's expanding role in global space initiatives. Moreover, Dr. Sedky highlighted the SPINEX project, funded by the Academy of Scientific Research and Technology (ASRT), aimed at launching a climate change research satellite by late 2024, further solidifying Egypt's commitment to advancing space-based environmental research.
Other News in Brief
Among the other regional space and satellite developments over the past week are:
The militaries of Azerbaijan and China discuss military cooperation, including in satellite communications.
Recommended Reading
Dubai’s Museum of the Future Inspires Future UAE Astronauts
In The National, Maitha Al Mazroie of the Museum of the Future writes that the UAE continues to make significant strides in space exploration, as evidenced by Emirati astronaut Shareef Al Romaithi's participation in NASA's 45-day Analogue mission, simulating conditions for a Mars journey. This mission, part of the UAE Analog Programme, aims to replicate space mission challenges on Earth and accelerate international efforts in space exploration. The UAE's space industry has seen remarkable growth, with public and private sector support exceeding $5.4 billion and spanning various sectors including manufacturing, settlements, and research. The country's commitment to space exploration is further demonstrated by previous milestones such as Dr. Sultan Al Neyadi's historic spacewalk and Hazza Al Mansouri's ISS mission. The Museum of the Future in Dubai plays a crucial role in fostering interest in space among young people through its dedicated space floor, educational programs, and workshops. As the UAE continues to invest in space exploration, it not only aims to fuel economic growth but also to address global challenges and prepare for future space missions. This commitment aligns with Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid's vision of space as the gateway to science and driver of the future economy, positioning the UAE as a key player in the global space industry.
The Progress and Challenges Faced by Muslim Astronauts
In Kompas, Muchamad Zaid Wahyudi writes that the 39th anniversary of the first Muslim astronaut's space flight coincided with Eid al-Adha celebrations in 2024, highlighting the progress and challenges faced by Muslim countries in space exploration. Despite Muslims comprising nearly 25% of the world's population, only 17 out of over 650 people who have traveled to space are from Muslim-majority countries. The first Muslim astronaut, Sultan bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud from Saudi Arabia, flew on NASA's STS-51G space shuttle mission in 1985. Since then, Muslim participation in space missions has increased, particularly through commercial space flights and partnerships with international space agencies. Notable achievements include Anousheh Ansari becoming the first Muslim woman in space in 2006 and recent missions by Saudi and Turkish astronauts. However, space exploration presents unique challenges for Muslim astronauts in terms of religious practices, such as prayer and fasting. To address these issues, religious authorities have issued guidelines adapting Islamic practices to the space environment. As Muslim countries continue to invest in space programmes, the intersection of faith and science in space exploration remains an area of ongoing discussion and adaptation.
ICEYE’s SAR Satellites and the UAE’s Energy Transition
In Oil & Gas Middle East, Jamil Kawar, ICEYE’s Vice President for Missions in the Middle East and North Africa, writes that as the global energy transition progresses, the UAE is taking a leading role in balancing the ongoing need for fossil fuels with the shift towards renewable energy sources. The 31st Annual Middle East Petroleum and Gas Conference in Dubai highlighted the potential of emerging technologies, particularly in the New Space sector, to support this transition. Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) satellites are emerging as a key technology for the oil and gas industry, offering capabilities that can enhance sustainability efforts, protect critical infrastructure, and optimise supply chains. These satellites provide high-resolution imaging capabilities that can penetrate clouds and sandstorms, enabling rapid detection of oil spills, monitoring of drilling platforms, and assessment of environmental impacts. SAR technology also allows for continuous monitoring of pipelines and drilling sites, enhancing security and enabling early detection of potential failures. Furthermore, SAR satellites can improve maritime domain awareness, ensuring safe and uninterrupted transportation of oil and gas shipments globally. As the world gradually shifts away from fossil fuels, innovative technologies like SAR satellites can play a crucial role in making oil and gas production more efficient and sustainable, supporting economic growth while minimising environmental impact during the transition period.
Be sure to catch up with space activities in the region in the next edition of Middle East Space Monitor’s space roundup!