Middle East Space Roundup: 24 to 30 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:
Azerbaijan Space Developments
Azerbaijan’s Azercosmos Sign MoU With Czech Reoublic’s PEKASAT SE
Azercosmos, Azerbaijan's state space corporation, has signed a memorandum of cooperation with PEKASAT SE, a Czech company specialising in antenna systems, IT, and cloud solutions for satellite operators. This strategic partnership aims to enhance terrestrial station compatibility and create new business opportunities for low-orbit satellite operations. The collaboration will focus on telemetry, including the reception of control signals, sending commands to satellites, and transmitting large volumes of data. Both parties will exchange expertise in ground infrastructure operations, serving customers in Azerbaijan and the Czech Republic. This partnership aligns with Azercosmos' broader objectives to become a significant player in the global space industry by engaging in R&D activities, participating in major global projects, and developing a space ecosystem in Azerbaijan. The cooperation with PEKASAT SE, a European joint-stock company based in Brno, represents a significant step in Azercosmos' efforts to expand its international collaborations and introduce local know-how to the global space sector.
Azerbaijan’s Government Expands Roles and Responsibilities of Azercosmos
The Cabinet of Ministers of Azerbaijan has amended the Charter of Azercosmos, the state space corporation, significantly expanding its roles and responsibilities. As a public law body, Azercosmos will now function as the national space operator, with expanded duties including coordinating national space activities, submitting information on registered space objects to the UN, and managing orbital positions and radio frequencies. The agency's scope has been broadened to include organising satellite systems domestically and internationally, receiving satellite data from foreign space objects, and temporarily controlling space objects for safety purposes when necessary. Notably, Azercosmos will now be responsible for establishing, restricting, transferring, and terminating ownership rights of space entities to space objects, as well as registering them in the State Register of Space Objects. These amendments reflect Azerbaijan's growing ambitions in the space sector and its commitment to aligning with international space regulations while enhancing its capabilities in satellite operations and space object management.
Azerbaijan’s Azercosmos to Build Own Satellite, Create Satellite Network
Azercosmos, Azerbaijan's state space corporation, has announced plans to independently produce the country's first satellite, marking a significant milestone in the country's space industry development. Samaddin Asadov, Chairman of the Board of Azercosmos, revealed this ambitious project during the Baku Investment Day festival, emphasising that it will not be limited to small satellites but will involve the creation of a more powerful satellite network. The announcement signals Azerbaijan's commitment to expanding its space infrastructure and could open up new opportunities for economic growth, international collaboration, and technological advancement in the country's space industry.
Israel Space News
Israel Exploring Starlink SATCOM for National Emergency Communications
In response to potential threats of all-out war and infrastructure disruptions, Israel's Ministries of Finance and Communications are exploring the use of Elon Musk's Starlink satellite communications system to maintain internet connectivity during emergencies. The initiative aims to ensure stable data and information flow for state authorities by utilising Starlink's 5,000 low-orbit satellites as a backup for emergency management offices across government departments. This move follows the granting of an operating license to Starlink in Israel in February 2024, with the service initially focused on areas near conflict zones. The consideration of Starlink stems from concerns about potential damage to the electricity network during a total war, which could disrupt internet services. According to scenarios by the National Emergency Management Authority and electricity company Noga, attacks on sensitive infrastructure could lead to widespread blackouts, particularly in the northern region. The Ministry of Communications has already allocated funds to extend the redundancy of cellular relay stations and is working to improve system survivability, especially in remote areas. This preparedness effort reflects the Israeli government's growing awareness of the need for robust communication systems in the face of potential large-scale conflicts.
Israeli Researchers Discover Molecular Glass that Could Revolutionise Satellite Sensors and Communications
Researchers from Tel Aviv University in Israel have made a groundbreaking discovery of a unique molecular glass that forms spontaneously at room temperature when exposed to water. Led by PhD student Gal Finkelstein-Zuta and Prof. Ehud Gazit, the team found that an aromatic peptide consisting of a three-tyrosine sequence (YYY) creates this glass without the need for high heat or pressure typically required in traditional glass production. The new material exhibits exceptional properties, including enhanced transparency across a wide spectral range from visible light to mid-infrared, strong adhesive capabilities, and the ability to self-repair at room temperature. These characteristics make it potentially revolutionary for various industries, including optics, electro-optics, satellite communication, remote sensing, and biomedicine. The glass's enhanced transparency and broad spectral range could significantly improve satellite sensors, communication systems, and medical imaging tools. Its self-repairing qualities could extend the lifespan of optical components in adverse environments. This discovery, published in the peer-reviewed Nature journal, represents a significant advancement in materials science with wide-ranging applications across multiple sectors.
Five Israeli Startups Selected for NASA Artemis Accelerator Programme
Five startups in Israel have been selected to participate in the EXPAND accelerator programme, led by Creation-Space and the Tech7 innovation community, aimed at developing space-related ventures for potential inclusion in NASA's Artemis programme. The selected companies - Tedence Space, Omnidrill, Inhayle, NOVAlert, and OASIX - will receive comprehensive business and professional support, including mentorship from global experts and guidance on navigating regulatory frameworks. The programme, supported by JNF USA, CreationsVC, and the Israel Space Agency, will culminate in a presentation to investors and industry representatives in September 2024, with the winning startup receiving an INS 100,000 ($26,710) grant. This initiative marks a significant expansion of Israel's space sector beyond satellite expertise, venturing into technologies supporting deep space exploration and human life beyond Earth. Dr. Roy Naor, CEO of Creation-Space, emphasises the programme's potential to leverage Israel's unique capabilities and entrepreneurial spirit in contributing to global space exploration efforts, highlighting the sector's growth as both a scientific endeavour and an opportunity for technological and social advancement.
Other News
U.S. Space Command Concerned About Growing Iran-Russia Space Cooperation
The head of U.S. Space Command, General Stephen N. Whiting, has expressed growing concern over increased cooperation in space activities among Russia, China, North Korea, and Iran. This collaboration, primarily occurring on a bilateral basis, adds complexity to an already contested space domain. Recent developments include Russia launching an Iranian satellite, Russia and China announcing plans for a lunar nuclear power plant, and Russia supporting North Korea's space programme. Of particular concern is Russia's recent launch of a counterspace weapon into low-Earth orbit, co-planar with a U.S. national security satellite. This launch bears similarities to previous Russian tests of "nesting doll" satellites capable of deploying kinetic weapons. Meanwhile, China's rapid expansion in space capabilities, including developing counterspace technologies and systems to support terrestrial forces, has been described as "breathtakingly fast." These developments are prompting increased collaboration between the U.S. and its allies in the Indo-Pacific region to counter these emerging threats in space.
Spain’s EOS-X Space Preparing to Launch Space Tourism Balloon Rides in 2025 from UAE
EOS-X SPACE, a Spanish space exploration company, is preparing to launch its first stratospheric space trips from Seville, Spain, and Abu Dhabi, UAE, by the third quarter of 2025. The company has invested over $23 million in engineering and development in Spain and the UAE, and is currently engaged in a multi-million dollar investment round led by FTI Capital Advisors. EOS-X SPACE's unique offering involves a pressurised carbon-fiber spaceship propelled by a zero-emission, helium-filled balloon, capable of accommodating eight passengers and one pilot at an altitude of over 40 kilometers. Each five-hour flight, costing between $160,550 and $214,060, includes luxury amenities and panoramic views of space. The company is finalising validation tests and spaceship capsule development in collaboration with military pilots and the National Institute for Aerospace Technology (INTA). With revenue growth projected at 220 percent over five years, EOS-X SPACE is positioning itself as a pioneer in the emerging space tourism industry, offering not only stratospheric flights but also immersive pre-flight experiences at its SpaceHub Complex in Seville. This venture represents a significant development in the commercialisation of space travel and the expansion of high-end tourism offerings in Spain and the UAE.
Bahrain’s NamaSys Creates GCC-based Satellite JV With Sidus Space
Sidus Space, Inc., a NASDAQ-listed provider of end-to-end precision space infrastructure solutions, has announced a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Bahrain’s NamaSys, a technology and electronic security consultancy, to establish a joint venture in the Middle East. The collaboration aims to build, own, and operate a satellite manufacturing, production, assembly, and integration facility serving Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries and beyond. This strategic partnership will focus on exploring opportunities for sustained access to space for GCC countries through satellite manufacturing and space-based data collection. The joint venture is positioned to serve government and private clients across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, with a mission to foster science and technology development. Carol Craig, Founder and CEO of Sidus Space, emphasised the importance of this relationship in launching their satellite operations and on-orbit services into the GCC region. The collaboration is expected to leverage recent advances in 3D printing for lightweight complex designs in the space industry, potentially bringing the GCC region closer to industry leaders. This partnership represents a significant step in expanding space infrastructure and services in the Middle East, with potential implications for regional technological advancement and economic diversification.
UAE’s Shareef Al Romaithi Completes 45-Day NASA Mars Simulated Mission
UAE pilot Shareef Al Romaithi has completed a 45-day Mars simulation mission as part of NASA's Human Exploration Research Analogue (HERA) project in Houston, Texas. The mission, which involved three American colleagues, aimed to measure the psychological and physiological effects of prolonged confinement and isolation similar to extended space travel. The crew conducted 18 experiments, including six designed by UAE universities, focusing on physiological, behavioral, and psychological responses in confined spaces. This mission represents a significant step in the UAE's space ambitions, which include plans for a Mars settlement by 2117 and participation in NASA's Lunar Gateway project. The UAE's involvement in such international collaborations underscores its growing prominence in the global space community, following successful missions like the Hope probe to Mars and sending astronauts to the International Space Station. The country is also developing its domestic space capabilities, with plans to launch the MBZSat Earth observation satellite in October 2024. This Mars simulation mission contributes valuable data to the international effort in preparing for long-duration space travel and highlights the UAE's commitment to fostering scientific expertise in space exploration.
Oman’s Etlaq Spaceport Signs MoU With ABL Space Systems for Possible Launch of RS1 Launch Vehicle
The Civil Aviation Authority of Oman has facilitated a Memorandum of Understanding between U.S.-based ABL Space Systems and Etlaq Spaceport, marking a significant milestone in Oman's space sector development. The agreement explores the potential for launching ABL's RS1 vehicle from the Etlaq Spaceport, which is set to be operational by 2027. Located at 18-degree latitude, the spaceport will offer wide orbital access and leverage nearby logistical infrastructure. This partnership aims to bring orbital satellite launch capability to the Gulf region, with initial focus on evaluating local logistics, site construction, and developing regulatory frameworks. The collaboration aligns with Oman's ambition to become a regional and global leader in the space industry, capitalising on the growing space ecosystem in the Gulf. Both ABL Space Systems and Etlaq executives emphasised the importance of this partnership in fostering local access to space and positioning Oman's spaceport as a global choice for established space launch companies.
Qatar’s Es’hailSat Expands DataMiner Partnership With Skyline Communications
Es'hailSat, Qatar's national satellite company, has significantly expanded its partnership with Skyline Communications by integrating new DataMiner services into its operations. This strategic move aims to enhance Es'hailSat's ability to monitor and manage satellite operations with increased efficiency and precision. The DataMiner digital transformation software platform provides Es'hailSat with a comprehensive overview of satellite operations, including uplink, downlink, video encoding, and decoding processes, all presented on a single interface. The recent integration of DataMiner's automation and AI-assisted capabilities further optimizes operational workflows. The company's Teleport Director, Yassine Bihi, highlighted how DataMiner's advanced features, such as AI-driven Augmented Operations, enable proactive monitoring and preemptive problem-solving.
Qatar has Potential to Establish a Space Agency: Former Senior NASA Official
Qatar has the potential to establish its own space agency, according to Jim Adams, a retired NASA Deputy Chief Technologist, who recently facilitated the inaugural Katara Space Science Programme (KSSP) in the country. The programme, which attracted over 400 students, aims to develop space science education and promote scientific research in Qatar. Adams emphasised the broader benefits of space education, including the development of science, math, and project management skills that are valuable across various industries. The establishment of a Qatari space agency or partnership with existing agencies like UAE, India, or NASA could further enhance the country's involvement in space-related activities. Currently, there are 78 operational government space agencies worldwide, and Qatar's potential entry into this field could strengthen its position in the global space community. The KSSP's success and the growing interest in space science among Qatari students suggest a promising future for the country's space sector, potentially leading to increased international collaboration and technological advancement.
Türkiye: New Earth Observation Satellites; Space Station Ambitions; and Possible Cooperation With U.S. Artemis Moon Programme
Minister of Industry and Technology Mehmet Fatih Kacir has announced Türkiye's plans to significantly enhance its Earth observation satellite capabilities with the launch of the indigenous Imece satellite project. This initiative, comprising two new satellites, is set to be commissioned within four years and will largely meet the country's high-resolution Earth observation needs domestically. The project will be complemented by the renewal of Gokturk Earth observation satellites and ongoing work on CubeSats and small satellites. Following the successful launch of Turksat-6A, Türkiye's first indigenous communications satellite, on 8 July 2024, the country is exploring new space opportunities, including constructing orbital space stations. Kacir also highlighted Türkiye's lunar project, AYAP, with plans to launch a lunar spacecraft by early 2027. The minister emphasised the importance of international cooperation in these endeavours, noting ongoing negotiations with the UAE for establishing a spaceport and discussions with companies like SpaceX and Axiom Space. Additionally, Türkiye is evaluating potential contributions to NASA's Artemis Moon exploration project, further underscoring its commitment to international collaboration in space exploration.
Saudi Arabian Minister Meets With Senior U.S. Space Officials
Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Communications and Information Technology, Eng. Abdullah Al-Sawah, held a series of high-level meetings with White House officials to strengthen the strategic partnership between Saudi Arabia and the United States, with a focus on innovation in the Kingdom's space industry. The discussions covered a wide range of topics, including collaborations in advanced technologies such as 5G and 6G, ORAN RAN technologies, and the digital economy. A key meeting with Chirag Parikh, Executive Secretary of the White House National Space Council, centered on joint investments in space economies and technologies, as well as the development of national talents. These engagements, attended by Saudi Ambassador Princess Reema bint Bandar bin Sultan and Deputy Minister Eng. Haitham Al-Ohali, underscore Saudi Arabia's commitment to advancing its technological capabilities and space sector through international partnerships. The meetings align with the Kingdom's broader goals of economic diversification and establishing itself as a significant player in the global space and technology industries.
Other News in Brief
Among the other regional space and satellite developments over the past week are:
Bahrain’s National Space Science Agency (NSSA) participated in the Secure World Foundation’s Space Sustainability Summit held in Tokyo, Japan;
Israel’s Gilat Satellite Networks Ltd. has received orders worth $14 million from several unnamed customers for SATCOM In-Flight Connectivity (IFC) solutions;
Recommended Reading
Can Israel Rely on Elon Musk for Emergency Satellite Communications?
In CTech by Calcalist, Omer Kabir writes that Israel is considering the use of Elon Musk's Starlink satellite communication network as an emergency backup in case of traditional communication system failures during potential conflicts, such as a war with Hezbollah. While Starlink offers advantages like resistance to missile attacks and functionality during power outages, concerns have been raised about relying on a system controlled solely by Musk. His past actions, including disabling Starlink access in specific areas during the Russia-Ukraine conflict, and his tendency to make impulsive decisions based on social media pressures, raise questions about the reliability of the service in critical situations. Musk's controversial statements and actions regarding anti-Semitism and his management of X (formerly Twitter) further complicate the issue. The potential for Musk to unilaterally decide to cut off access during a conflict poses a significant risk to Israel's emergency communications. This situation highlights the complex geopolitical implications of private control over crucial communication infrastructure and the need for careful consideration of such dependencies in national security planning.
Space Analyst: Israel Should Consider Reusable Launch Vehicles and Sea Launch to Access Space
In Mosaic Magazine, Rand Simberg writes that Israel's space capabilities, while impressive, face significant limitations and potential opportunities in the context of the rapidly evolving space industry. The country's geographical location poses challenges for orbital launches, as eastward launches would overfly hostile territories, forcing Israel to launch westward over the Mediterranean. This results in reduced payload capacity and limits commercial viability. Israel's current Shavit rocket technology is also outdated in the age of reusability pioneered by companies like SpaceX. To remain competitive and autonomous in space access, Israel may need to consider developing reusable launch systems and exploring sea-based launch platforms. The advent of equatorial low Earth orbit (ELEO) as a potentially valuable orbital region suggests that Israel could benefit from expanding its navy to include spaceship carriers operating from the equator off Africa's east coast. As launch costs decrease, Israel has opportunities to leverage its strengths in pharmaceuticals, biotech, and space research to become a hub for space manufacturing and research. The country could also consider developing its own space stations and participating in the construction of large-scale space infrastructure. These developments could position Israel as a significant player in the emerging commercial space economy and potentially lead to the establishment of extraterrestrial Jewish communities, expanding Israel's influence beyond Earth.
The Middle East and Space Situational Awareness: A Path to Space Sustainability
In the Middle East Space Monitor, Fawaz Islam of NorthStar Earth & Space Inc., writes that with the growing participation of Middle Eastern countries in space exploration and utilization the issue of space sustainability has been brought to the forefront. As countries like Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Bahrain, Egypt, Oman, and Qatar invest in space technology, the responsible use and preservation of outer space has become crucial for ensuring fair access to orbits and minimizing space debris. The space economy is projected to exceed $1.8 trillion by 2035, with significant contributions expected from countries like Saudi Arabia. To address the challenges of space debris and enhance space situational awareness (SSA), countries in the region are launching initiatives and collaborating with international partners. Saudi Arabia's Centre for Space Futures and the UAE's National Space Debris Monitoring and Mitigation Program are notable examples of such efforts. The collaboration between the Saudi Space Agency and NorthStar Earth & Space Inc. to advance space situational awareness capabilities highlights the region's commitment to space sustainability. As the Middle East takes a leadership role in this domain, balancing the economic opportunities of space exploration with the risks posed by unsustainable practices remains a critical challenge for the future of the global 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!