AI-powered geospatial firm Bayanat and satellite communications company Yahsat have launched the UAE’s first Low Earth Orbit (LEO) Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) satellite.
The satellite was successfully launched on Friday from Vandenberg Space Force Base aboard SpaceX’s Transporter 11. This significant achievement, in collaboration with SAR specialist ICEYE, marks a major milestone in the UAE’s space ambitions.
This technology is invaluable for monitoring natural disasters and observing environmental changes.
The satellite is part of the Earth Observation Space Programme, which aims to build a SAR satellite constellation. This programme will provide real-time geospatial data, essential for monitoring and disaster management.
The UAE satellite has already established communication, with early operations underway.
Space42 Merger
This achievement follows an announcement in late 2023 of a proposed merger between Bayanat and Yahsat, both headquartered in Abu Dhabi and listed on the ADX.
The merger aims to establish a leading AI-powered space technology company in the MENA region.
Hasan Al Hosani, managing director of Bayanat, added: “The launch of our first satellite is a significant milestone for our collaboration and for the UAE, marking a pivotal step towards our future as Space42.”
