2 days ago
BSA showcases Arab model for strategic space planning
The Bahrain Space Agency (BSA), in collaboration with the UN-affiliated Regional Centre for Space Science and Technology Education for Western Asia, held a workshop on strategic planning for space programmes, highlighting the Bahraini experience as a regional model.
The workshop, attended by representatives from several Arab countries, aimed to foster regional cooperation and unify visions in the space sector.
Technologies
Yaqoob Al Qassab, Space Engineering Specialist, opened the workshop with a presentation on Bahrain's history in utilising space technologies, the national space policy framework, and the implementation mechanism of the agency's 2024–2028 strategic plan.
He emphasised success factors including international cooperation, scientific research investment, national capacity building, and the importance of a supportive infrastructure for space projects.
Aysha Al Haram, Chief Satellite Design Department at the BSA, presented a case study on translating strategic plans into tangible projects.
Success
She highlighted the success of Bahrain's joint satellite with the UAE, 'Light-1' (2021), and the national satellite 'Al Munther' (2025), the first Arab satellite to incorporate embedded artificial intelligence technologies.
Al Haram emphasised the pivotal role of young Bahraini talent in successfully delivering these projects.
She also outlined Bahrain's approach in linking strategic planning with practical space applications, such as using satellite data to monitor environmental challenges and establishing a satellite imagery lab to support decision-making in urban planning.
