Middle East Space Roundup: 18 to 24 March 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:
Iran’s Continuing Space Developments
Iranian Minister: Iran is Global Top Ten in Satellite and Space Launch Vehicle Manufacturing
Iran's Minister of Communications and Information Technology, Issa Zarepour, asserts that Iran ranks among the top ten countries globally in satellite and space launch vehicle manufacturing, highlighting the country's advancements in space technology. In an interview with Iran's Al-Alam TV, Zarepour emphasised Iran's possession of satellite launch facilities and ground stations for data reception, underscoring the country's capacity to launch satellites weighing up to 200 kg into orbit. He also outlined Iran's plans to launch heavier satellites in the next five years, indicating a strategic vision for space exploration and satellite deployment. Zarepour celebrated Iran's recent achievement of placing satellites in low Earth orbit, marking a significant milestone in the country's space programme. Looking ahead, Iran aims to launch communication and internet satellites, particularly targeting remote areas, in the upcoming year. Despite facing sanctions from Western countries, Iran is progressing steadfastly in its civilian space programme, exemplified by the successful launch of the domestically-built Pars-1 Earth observation satellite in February 2024. The ongoing construction of West Asia's largest space base in southern Iran signifies the country's commitment to advancing its space capabilities, despite geopolitical challenges.
Iran Assumes Presidency of the UN’s Conference on Disarmament
Ali Bahraini, Iran's Ambassador and Permanent Representative to international organizations in Geneva, Switzerland, has been appointed as the president of the UN Conference on Disarmament. In his address at the first meeting of the Conference on Disarmament, Bahraini outlined Iran's agenda for his presidency, emphasizing the promotion of international peace and security through the elimination of weapons of mass destruction, particularly nuclear weapons. Established in 1978, the Conference on Disarmament serves as the sole international multilateral negotiation body for disarmament, tasked with negotiating and signing international treaties in this domain. Bahraini reiterated Iran's commitment to following up on the obligations of nuclear weapons holders, advocating for the complete, irreversible, and verifiable destruction of nuclear weapons, cessation of the nuclear arms race, establishment of a weapons of mass destruction-free Middle East, provision of security guarantees to non-nuclear states, and the prohibition of the arms race in outer space.
Iran Plans to Launch Astronauts Soon, Achieve Sub-Meter Resolution Earth Observation Satellites by 2028
Iran is advancing its space exploration ambitions, with plans to send humans into space and improve satellite technology, according to recent announcements by Iranian officials. The country aims to test new bio-capsules with the Salman launcher and potentially witness Iranian astronauts in space using indigenous technology. Iranian Communications Minister Issa Zarepour highlighted the country's progress in satellite launches and satellite construction, citing achievements such as the successful launch of the Omid satellite in 2007 and subsequent developments in satellite production. Iran also aims to enhance satellite accuracy and expand its capabilities, with plans to launch satellites with improved resolution and reach below one-meter accuracy in color by 2028. The country is investing in upgrading its launch infrastructure, including constructing a new space base, to support future space missions. These developments reflect Iran's strategic efforts to strengthen its presence in space exploration and satellite technology.
Iran to Start Design and Development of Heavy Satellite Launch Vehicles
The Iranian Space Agency is progressing in its satellite manufacturing endeavors. The head of the agency, Hassan Salarieh, announced the imminent finalization of the Pars-2 Earth observation satellite in the coming months, along with the completion of the Nahid-3 communications satellite. Plans are also underway for the design and construction of satellite launch vehicles for heavy satellites like Sarir and Qaem 105 and 120. Salarieh expressed optimism about conducting the first launch from the Chabahar launch site next year and included the Saman-2 and Zafar-2 satellites in the agency's agenda, signaling Iran's continued advancement in its space technology capabilities.
Israeli Space Developments
Israel’s Defense Force Stands Up Space Directorate Unit
The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) have officially launched their new Space Directorate Unit, formed in response to the evolving defense landscape and the increasing importance of space-based operations. Led by Lt. Col. N., the unit aims to consolidate all missions beyond Earth's atmosphere, aligning with Israel's broader defense strategy amidst ongoing conflicts and rising tensions along its borders. While the timing of the unit's establishment during a period of conflict may seem unconventional, Lt. Col. N. emphasizes the necessity of looking ahead to expand defense capabilities, particularly in light of global advancements in space technology and the growing significance of space-based systems. The Space Directorate Unit operates in two main areas: satellite projects and cooperation with existing defense systems, bridging challenges between the IDF and the Israeli Air Force. Lt. Col. N. highlights the unit's focus on integrating space operations with other IDF units, emphasizing the proximity of space and its relevance to everyday activities. Despite the complexities of space exploration and defense, the establishment of the unit during wartime reflects a sense of purpose and determination to prepare for future challenges, underscoring Israel's commitment to securing its position in the rapidly evolving space domain.
Israeli Scientists Propose Controversial Space-Based Climate Change Solution
In response to escalating concerns about climate change, aerospace engineers and physicists, led by Prof. Yoram Rozen from Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, have proposed deploying a giant parasol in space to mitigate global warming. Rozen's team suggests positioning the sunshade strategically between Earth and the Sun to block solar radiation, potentially cooling the planet by 1.5 degrees Celsius, effectively returning temperatures to pre-Industrial Revolution levels. The proposed prototype aims to demonstrate the feasibility of this concept, with plans to construct a 10-square-meter shade and launch it into space. The parasol, made of lightweight, weather-resistant fabric, would oscillate between Lagrange points to maintain stability without propulsion. However, critiques from scientists at Wichita State University highlight challenges and limitations, suggesting that Rozen's shade would only reduce sunlight by 2%, falling short of the 10%-15% reduction needed to cool the Earth by 1.5 degrees Celsius. Additionally, calculations indicate that the shade's effects would last only about 60 years, prompting skepticism about its practicality as a standalone solution to climate change.
Israel’s Gilat Unveils its Cloud and 5G NTN Evolution Strategy
Israel’s Gilat Satellite Networks Ltd. unveiled its Cloud and 5G Non-Terrestrial Network (NTN) evolution strategy, aiming to bolster support for satellite operators and service providers. Hagay Katz, Chief Product and Marketing Officer, emphasized the industry's trajectory toward digital transformation, anticipating a transition towards cloud and 5G NTN technologies. This evolution is expected to usher in standardized ubiquitous connectivity, foster a multi-vendor open ecosystem, and unlock new revenue streams through innovative use cases. Katz stressed the importance of efficiency, adaptability, and strategic evolution in navigating this transition seamlessly. Dubi Lever, Chief Technology Officer, highlighted Gilat's focus on enabling a smooth transition to 5G NTN through its next-generation SkyEdge IV platform, which already supports multi-orbit operation and Very High Throughput Satellite (VHTS), ensuring compatibility with evolving standards while preserving existing investments and facilitating continuous technology advancement.
UAE Space & Satellite Developments
UAE’s Thuraya Partners with Niflink for Telemedicine and e-Learning Solutions
Thuraya, a subsidiary of the UAE's leading satellite solutions provider Yahsat, has formed a strategic partnership with Niflink to deliver tailored telemedicine and eLearning solutions leveraging Niflink's advanced video compression technology across Thuraya's network. This collaboration targets a diverse range of institutional users, including health and education ministries, the military, first responders, and NGOs, enabling large-scale remote education and healthcare initiatives in remote and rural regions. The embedded video compression technology ensures efficient multimedia transmission over Thuraya's extensive satellite network, covering 80% of the globe. Sulaiman Al Ali, Thuraya CEO and Yahsat Chief Commercial Officer, highlighted the significance of the partnership in expanding access to essential health and education services. Cav. Bruno Iacone, CEO of Niflink, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership's potential to enhance accessibility to critical services. Niflink's adaptability across various scenarios, including video conferencing, national eLearning initiatives, and remote medical services, underscores its versatility and potential impact in addressing diverse use cases efficiently. The compression framework provided by Niflink offers high-quality transmission over narrow links without requiring powerful hardware or intermediate infrastructure, promising significant benefits for remote and challenging environments.
Ahmad Al Falasi Replaces Sarah Al Amiri as Chair of the UAE Space Agency
Dr. Ahmad Al Falasi has been reappointed as chairman of the UAE Space Agency, succeeding Sarah Al Amiri, who held the position since 2020. The agency, pivotal in shaping the UAE's space policies and projects, welcomed Dr. Al Falasi during an event at Emirates Towers. With prior experience leading the agency from 2017 to 2020, Dr. Al Falasi brings a wealth of knowledge to the role. Under his previous tenure, the UAE achieved significant milestones, including sending the first Emirati astronaut to space, launching its first domestically built satellite, and embarking on a mission to Mars. His reappointment signals continuity in the UAE's ambitious space agenda. Meanwhile, Ms. Al Amiri, credited for leading the development of the Hope mission to Mars, expressed gratitude for Dr. Al Falasi's contributions and highlighted her dedication to building a private space sector to further boost the national economy. As the UAE aims to expand its space endeavors, including the ambitious Emirates Mission to the Asteroid Belt, collaboration between government and private entities will be crucial in driving innovation and economic growth in the sector.
U.S. SAR Satellite Company Capella Space Eyes UAE Market
Capella Space, a leading American provider of synthetic aperture radar (SAR) satellites and imagery, is strategically expanding into international markets with a focus on government clients. While the U.S. government has been a primary customer, Capella's CEO, Frank Backes, notes a significant shift with foreign governments increasingly driving future growth. Japan has emerged as the company's second-largest customer for SAR data, with opportunities arising in the United Kingdom and the United Arab Emirates for satellite projects integrated into national space architectures. Backes underscores the trend of governments seeking sovereign space capabilities and the advantage of independently tasking commercial radar satellites. With headquarters in San Francisco and manufacturing facilities in Colorado, Capella is well-positioned to meet growing demand, backed by U.S. government support for international sales initiatives. The company's agile approach to satellite manufacturing, coupled with its capacity to ramp up production, positions it to capture a larger share of the global market as governments seek cost-effective solutions for modern space-based reconnaissance.
Bayanat, Yahsat Shareholders to Vote on Space42 Merger in April 2024
The UAE’s Bayanat and Yahsat have issued circulars announcing their General Assembly Meetings (GAMs) on 25 April 2024, where shareholders will vote on their proposed merger. This follows their respective boards of directors' unanimous recommendation in December 2023. The merger would create Space42, an AI-powered space technology leader in the Middle East and North Africa region, poised to become one of the world's most valuable publicly listed space companies. With combined revenue and net income totaling AED2.8 billion ($760 million) and AED637 million ($173.46 million), respectively, for the financial year 2023, Space42 aims to deliver significant value across upstream, midstream, and downstream solutions. The merger is expected to unlock synergies, expand service offerings, and improve profitability, positioning the entity to capitalize on regional and global opportunities in geospatial, mobility, satellite communications, and sustainability. According to a pro forma consolidated statement, Space42 is projected to possess total assets amounting to AED14.8 billion ($4.03 billion), with revenues of AED984.6 million ($268.11 million) and a profit of AED244 million ($66.44 million).
UAE’s Mira Aerospace Offers HAPS Solutions to India
In a strategic move to capitalize on the burgeoning Indian aerospace market, a joint venture between Bayanat, majority-owned by G42 of Abu Dhabi, UAE, and UAVOS, a U.S.-based unmanned systems developer, is collaborating with VEDA Aeronautics, an Indian aerospace and defense firm, to introduce High Altitude Pseudo Satellite (HAPS) solutions tailored for India. The partnership, facilitated by Bayanat, aims to leverage Mira Aerospace's ApusNeo HAPS technology and VEDA Aeronautics' local development expertise to deliver connectivity solutions across expansive Indian territories. This initiative underscores the growing demand for innovative aerial systems capable of providing wide-area connectivity, particularly in remote regions. By committing to deliver a specialized HAPS platform for the Indian market by mid-2024, the joint venture is strategically positioned to meet evolving aerospace and defense needs. Furthermore, VEDA Aeronautics' recent contract win for a jet-powered UAV underscores India's commitment to bolstering its unmanned aerial capabilities. Bayanat's impending merger with Yahsat later in 2024 is set to create an AI-powered space technology leader called Space42, further enhancing the strategic landscape of the aerospace and satellite communication sectors.
Other News
UAE in the spotlight at Mediterranean Aerospace Matching 2024 in Italy
Space Trends, organized by Wired Italia during the second Mediterranean Aerospace Matching 2024 united the Italian space sector at Italy's newly established Spaceport in #Grottaglie.
In the keynote address, Anna Hazlett, the Founder of AzurX, explored emerging space trends, new entrants, and insights from the Gulf region, with a special focus on the UAE.
Highlights from the Space Trends segment included discussions with Agenzia Spaziale Italiana, European Space Agency - ESA, D-Orbit, MaiaSpace, Apogeo Space, Planetek Italia, ARGOTEC, REA Space, Voyager Space, Virgin Galactic, SITAEL, Jim Bridenstine, the Federal Aviation Administration and the Department for Transport (DfT), United Kingdom.
Türkiye’s Türksat-6A Nears Completion, Set for July 2024 Launch
The CEO of Türksat, Hasan Hüseyin Ertok, announced the completion of the flight model and antenna tests for Türksat-6A, Türkiye's first indigenous communication satellite, signaling the project's near completion. Scheduled for launch during the week of 8 July 2024, the satellite represents a decade-long effort involving hundreds of engineers. Ertok highlighted its significance as Türkiye's largest indigenous satellite production to date, underscoring the advancements made in domestic equipment, software systems, and ground systems. Türksat-6A, to be launched into space by the SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket, will expand coverage to regions including India and Indonesia, positioning it as a major milestone in Türkiye's space ecosystem.
Egypt and China Sign Governing Protocol for MisrSat-2 Operations
The Egyptian Space Agency (EgSA) has announced a landmark achievement in its collaboration with China, with the signing of a protocol governing the operation of the MisrSat-2 satellite. This protocol signifies a shared commitment to advancing space technology for peaceful purposes and marks a pivotal moment in space cooperation between the two countries. Signed by Prof. Sherif Sedky of EgSA and Mr. Li Jun of the Chinese Space Agency, the agreement underscores the significance of the MisrSat-2 project in supporting Egypt's sustainable development goals. The successful realization of MisrSat-2, Egypt's latest remote sensing satellite launched in December 2023, demonstrates the robust partnership between Egyptian and Chinese technical teams. This collaboration is poised to facilitate Egypt's sustainable development by providing high-resolution satellite imagery for monitoring waterways, coastline changes, agricultural activities, and land encroachments, thereby aiding in environmental monitoring and resource allocation. The signing of this agreement heralds a new era of space cooperation, affirming the shared ambition of both countries to explore space and attain leadership in this critical domain, while also strengthening bilateral relations in this strategically important sphere.
Arabsat Urges GEO SATCOM Industry to Adapt to New LEO/MEO Players
Abdulhadi Alhassani, Chief Strategy Officer at Arabsat headquartered in Saudi Arabia, has emphasized the imperative for geostationary satellite operators to adapt amidst evolving market dynamics. He suggests that the conventional business model of selling bandwidth capacity is no longer sustainable, urging operators to explore new niches and potentially diversify into low Earth orbit (LEO) or medium Earth orbit (MEO) ventures. This signals a shift in strategy within the satellite communications industry, as established GEO operators navigate challenges from emerging technologies and changing consumer demands. As the industry evolves beyond traditional GEO services, satellite operators are compelled to innovate and explore new avenues for growth and competitiveness. This adaptation reflects a broader trend towards flexibility and innovation in an industry undergoing profound transformation.
Other News in Brief
Among the other regional space and satellite developments over the past week are:
Türkiye’s space industry turns out in force at the Satellite 2024 show in Washington, DC;
Israel’s Gilat Satellite Networks Ltd. announces filing of 2023 annual report;
Armenia and India seek to expand strategic ties including space cooperation.
Recommended Reading
Charting the Rise of Azerbaijan’s Space Ambitions
Writing for The Jamestown Foundation, Fuad Alakbarov describes how Azerbaijan's space sector has seen significant activity and growth, with recent developments highlighting Baku's efforts to bolster its independent capabilities and forge new partnerships. In January 2024, the Ministry of Digital Development and Transport secured an orbital slot for its satellites, signaling a strategic move towards enhancing its space presence. Notably, Azerbaijan acquired multi-spectral electro-optical spy satellites from Israel Aerospace Industries in October 2023, demonstrating its commitment to modernizing its space assets. Moreover, collaborations with SpaceX and Türkiye underscore Azerbaijan's ambition to leverage external expertise and resources for its space endeavors. The country's broader objectives include transitioning to a knowledge-based economy and strengthening its international standing in science and technology. Security concerns also drive Azerbaijan's space initiatives, as evidenced by its use of satellite surveillance for monitoring cultural heritage sites and addressing geopolitical challenges. Additionally, partnerships with China present new opportunities for future lunar exploration missions. Through these initiatives, Azerbaijan aims to position itself as a regional leader in space exploration and inspire scientific innovation for years to come.
Be sure to catch up with space activities in the region in the next edition of Middle East Space Monitor’s space roundup!