Satellite for UAE-based Space42 launches into orbit

Thuraya 4 blasts into space aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket

Thuraya 4 blasts into space. Photo: Space42

Space42, the Abu Dhabi-based Space technology company, successfully launched its Thuraya 4 telecoms satellite into orbit, the company said on Saturday.

The satellite was aboard SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida. It will take several months until Thuraya 4 reaches its operational geostationary orbit, about 36,000 kilometres above Earth, Space42 said.

The satellite will provide mobile communications services throughout Europe, the Middle East and Africa.

“The successful launch is a clear testament to our commitment to push the innovation boundaries and actively participate in strengthening the UAE’s leadership in the SpaceTech sector globally,” said Mansoor Al Mansoori, chairman of Space42.

“This milestone in Space42’s journey not only propels its capabilities to reshape the future of connectivity but also and further advances the UAE’s ambitious National Space Strategy 2030.”

Hailing the launch, Space42 said Thuraya 4 significantly expands the company's capabilities as it represents the next generation of mobile telecoms systems.

Space42 said it was their sixth geostationary satellite and will provide more security, faster speeds and expanded coverage. The company further said the launch complements the company’s plans to launch more than 15 products to cater to the rapid growth across sectors such as defence, government and enterprise.

“Launching Thuraya 4 is a monumental step forward for Space42, continuing a legacy built upon disruptive technology, innovation and connectivity,” said Ali Al Hashemi, chief executive of Yahsat Space Services, Space42.

The satellite was flown to Florida on-board an Airbus Beluga, which is a specialised cargo aircraft that resembles a whale.

Alain Faure, head of space systems at Airbus, said the launch marked a “new chapter” for the aircraft manufacturer and Space42.

“After being transported from our clean rooms in France to its launch site in Florida on-board our own Airbus Beluga, the latest telecoms satellite is now ready to provide increased flexibility for our customer Space42's communications satellite fleet,” said Mr Faure.

"Leveraging the state-of-the-art all-electric Airbus eurostar neo platform, the Thuraya 4 launch represents a major milestone and reinforces our longstanding partnership with Space42, stretching back more than 10 years," he said.

Space42 was established last year after Bayanat, an artificial intelligence powered geospatial solutions provider owned by G42, merged with Al Yah Satellite Communications Company, known as Yahsat, the UAE’s flagship satellite solutions provider.

Last month, the company was awarded a new 17-year contract by the UAE government, that will help speed up the construction of its new satellites and provide more continuity in the development of the sector. The Dh18.7 billion ($5.1 billion) agreement replaces two existing contracts due to end in late 2026 and extends the parties' collaboration right through to 2043.

The UAE, meanwhile, has been expanding the scope of its space programme. It currently has the largest space sector in the region in terms of investment size and diversity. In 2022, the Emirates launched a Dh3 billion fund to bolster its space programme, along with a new initiative to develop radar satellites.