Introduction

In a landmark achievement, the UAE-based AI-powered SpaceTech company, Space42, has successfully launched its latest telecommunications satellite, Thuraya 4 (T4), into orbit. This event marks a crucial step forward in Space42's mission to revolutionize global connectivity through premium geospatial data and non-terrestrial networks (NTN).

Launch Details

The thrilling launch took place aboard SpaceX's Falcon 9 rocket from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, Florida, at 8:26 PM Eastern Time. Post-launch, Thuraya 4 engaged its electrical thrusters for Electrical Orbit Raising (EOR), a process that will take several months as the satellite ascends to its intended geostationary orbit at 44° East, situated approximately 36,000 km above the Earth’s surface.

Significance and Capacity

Thuraya 4 is no ordinary satellite; it is one of the largest in the Mobile Satellite Services (MSS) category, effectively enhancing Space42's capabilities and allowing the company to expand its portfolio. Over the coming years, Space42 plans to unveil over 15 new innovative products catering to diverse sectors, including defense, government, and enterprise. This sixth geostationary satellite will deliver improved security, faster transmission speeds, and broader coverage across regions such as Africa, Europe, Central Asia, and the Middle East.

Leadership Comments

His Excellency Mansoor Al Mansoori, Chairman of Space42, expressed great enthusiasm about the launch: “The successful deployment of Thuraya 4 is a testament to our commitment to innovation and our role in solidifying the UAE's position as a leader in the global SpaceTech arena. This achievement aligns with our aspirations under the National Space Strategy 2030.”

Karim Michel Sabbagh, Managing Director of Space42, emphasized the transformative potential of this launch: “Thuraya 4 not only strengthens our mobile satellite solution offerings but also opens up new paths for innovation and collaboration with our partners globally.”

The CEO of Yahsat Space Services, Ali Al Hashemi, highlighted the implications of this launch: “Thuraya 4 symbolizes a pivotal advancement in our quest to establish leadership in non-terrestrial networks while exploring new business opportunities such as direct-to-device communications and the Internet of Things (IoT).”

Additionally, Alain Fauré, Head of Space Systems at Airbus, celebrated the successful launch: “This satellite signifies a new chapter in our partnership with Space42, leveraging state-of-the-art technology from our Eurostar Neo platform to offer unmatched connectivity capabilities!”

Technical Specifications

Thuraya 4, part of the satellite mobility division at Space42's Yahsat Space Services, is powered by the advanced Airbus Eurostar Neo platform. It features a 12-meter antenna operating in L-Band and comes equipped with cutting-edge onboard processing technologies. These enhancements enable the satellite to handle up to 3,200 channels dynamically across multiple spot beams, ensuring exceptional routing flexibility.

Conclusion

The successful launch of Thuraya 4 not only showcases the UAE’s growing capabilities in space technology but also exemplifies the nation’s drive towards being at the forefront of global advancements in SpaceTech, signaling exciting future developments in satellite telecommunications. Brace yourself, as this is just the beginning of a new era in connectivity!