Latest news with #SatrecInitiative
Al Etihad
27-03-2025
- Business
- Al Etihad
'Etihad-SAT paves the way for new industries, future innovations in UAE space sector'
28 Mar 2025 00:17 SARA ALZAABI (ABU DHABI)With the launch of Etihad-SAT - the UAE's first satellite equipped with synthetic aperture radar (SAR) technology, the country is making a significant leap toward realising its space ambitions - a top official at the Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC) told AlSayegh AlGhaferi, Assistant Director General of the Aerospace Engineering Sector at MBRSC, said this SAR satellite would enhance Earth observation, remote sensing, as well as national infrastructure planning."Etihad-SAT is a major step forward in the UAE's space sector, as it is MBRSC's first satellite equipped with Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) technology and complements our current fleet of satellites," AlGhaferi said."SAR imaging enables high-resolution Earth observation in all weather conditions, day and night, ensuring a continuous stream of critical data. This enhances the UAE's ability to monitor environmental changes, support disaster management efforts, and strengthen infrastructure planning, and more."Unlike traditional optical satellites, SAR technology penetrates the cloud covers, dark interiors, and any adverse weather to provide uninterrupted Earth observation."SAR emits radio waves that bounce back, generating detailed images regardless of external factors," AlGhaferi said."This makes it invaluable for monitoring environmental changes, tracking geological changes, mapping urban expansion, and ensuring maritime movement. The UAE's integration of SAR technology strengthens its ability to gather real-time, actionable data for various industries."It will boost the country's high-resolution remote sensing capabilities to cover large areas at once."Its multi-mode imaging allows for tailored data collection, ensuring flexibility and accuracy in different research and operational applications," he this respect, its advanced imaging can significantly contribute to ongoing activity monitoring in sectors such as environmental surveillance, agriculture, maritime tracking, urban planning, and disaster will support several domains - from climate monitoring and precision-farming, to marine safety, infrastructure, and emergency response. Strengthening National Expertise Built through a strategic partnership with the South Korean Satrec Initiative, Etihad-SAT has strengthened national expertise in space technology."The UAE's collaboration with South Korea's Satrec Initiative has played a vital role in expanding national expertise in space technology, and this is our third collaborative project. We first partnered with Satrec Initiative during the development of DubaiSat-1 and DubaiSat-2. The MBRSC led the technical specifications and design validation, ensuring the satellite adhered to the highest global standards," AlGhaferi partnership, he said, strengthens UAE competence in the arena of space technology while enhancing collaborative efforts toward global space research. Etihad-SAT's AI Capabilities Artificial intelligence (AI) bolsters the data processing capability of the UAE's newest satellite in space."Artificial intelligence plays a crucial role in enhancing the efficiency and accuracy of Etihad-SAT's data analysis. AI algorithms will process vast amounts of satellite imagery, automatically identifying patterns, detecting anomalies, and generating actionable insights for decision-makers," AlGhaferi said."This significantly reduces the time needed to interpret complex datasets, enabling faster responses in fields like environmental monitoring, infrastructure development, and disaster management. AI will also help refine imaging techniques, improving the precision of data outputs and making them more accessible for different industries."The orbiter's three imaging modes are: Spot Mode for thorough analysis; Scan Mode to cover greater areas; and Strip Mode to monitor large regions. Solidifying a Leading Role in Space Innovation Etihad-SAT strengthens the UAE's commitment to space innovation and its competitiveness in satellite said: "The UAE is committed to maintaining a leading role in space innovation by focusing on indigenous satellite development, strategic partnerships, and the development of a local aerospace ecosystem."Such initiatives will allow the MBRSC to continue training Emirati engineers, take the advancement of AI integration, and develop next-generation technologies within the Satellite Development satellite forms part of the UAE's growing space fleet, along with KhalifaSat and MBZ-SAT."This integration enhances the UAE's ability to combine optical and radar data, creating a more comprehensive Earth observation system," AlGhaferi the operational control of the MBRSC Mission Control Centre, Etihad-SAT lays the foundation for future radar satellite innovations and continuous technological advancement in the UAE's space Etihad-SAT team works towards establishing research and technological self-sufficiency in industry growth to help build the UAE's vision of a knowledge-based economy."The satellite's launch not only advances national expertise in space technology but also paves the way for new industries, high-skilled jobs, and research opportunities," AlGhaferi stressed. Etihad-SAT leverages space data to drive scientific progress, enhance environmental management, and support sustainable development - in turn establishing the UAE as a leader in global space innovation and research.
Hi Dubai
17-03-2025
- Climate
- Hi Dubai
UAE's First SAR Satellite Etihad-SAT Set for Launch Aboard Falcon 9
Dubai's Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC) has announced the scheduled launch of its first Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) satellite, Etihad-SAT, set for tomorrow (March 15) at 10:39 AM UAE time. The satellite will lift off from Vandenberg Space Force Base, California, aboard a Falcon 9 rocket, with the launch timing subject to weather and operational conditions. Developed in collaboration with Korea's Satrec Initiative, Etihad-SAT is a milestone in the UAE's space program. MBRSC engineers led the satellite's technical design and validation, ensuring compliance with global standards before overseeing its final development. This initiative aligns with the UAE's vision to enhance national space capabilities through technology localisation and knowledge transfer. Equipped with cutting-edge SAR technology, Etihad-SAT enables high-precision Earth observation in all weather conditions, day and night. It offers three imaging modes: Spot Mode – High-resolution imaging for small areas Scan Mode – Wide-area coverage for large regions Strip Mode – Extended observation for longer regions The satellite's data will support critical industries, including oil spill detection, disaster management, maritime navigation, smart agriculture, and environmental monitoring, with AI-powered processing enhancing efficiency. Following launch, MBRSC's Mission Control Centre will oversee Etihad-SAT's operations, ensuring optimal data analysis and management. Space enthusiasts can watch the live broadcast of the launch at 10:15 AM UAE time via MBRSC's official website. News Source: Emirates News Agency
Zawya
17-03-2025
- Science
- Zawya
UAE launches first Synthetic Aperture Radar satellite
The UAE's Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC) on Saturday announced the successful launch of its first Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) satellite, Etihad-SAT. The satellite launched from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California, USA, aboard a Falcon 9 rocket at 10:43 AM (UAE time). The team at the ground station in Dubai subsequently confirmed receiving the first signal from the satellite at 12:04 PM (UAE time), said a Wam news agency report. Etihad-SAT represents a significant milestone in MBRSC's Satellite Development Programme, as the first of its kind satellite equipped with SAR imaging technology. The advanced capability will enhance the Centre's Earth observation capabilities by providing high-resolution images in all weather conditions, while further reinforcing the UAE's commitment to developing innovative space solutions. Etihad-SAT was developed through a strategic partnership with South Korea's Satrec Initiative. MBRSC's team led the technical specifications phase before moving on to preliminary design and technical validation to ensure compliance with the highest global standards. In the later stages, MBRSC engineers took the lead in finalising the design and manufacturing in partnership with Satrec Initiative. The development is in line with MBRSC's commitment to enhancing national space capabilities through knowledge transfer and the localisation of advanced technologies. Talal Humaid Belhoul Al Falasi, Vice President, MBRSC, said: 'The UAE is steadily advancing towards strengthening its position among the leading nations in space science and technology, guided by the vision of our leadership and its continuous support for this vital sector. We express our gratitude for this support, which has resulted today in a new achievement with the launch of Etihad-SAT. The satellite represents a strategic step in enhancing our Earth observation capabilities and gathering critical data that supports sustainable development. This milestone also paves the way for leveraging space technologies across various fields that serve the nation. We remain dedicated to achieving sustainable technological advancement that strengthens our country's position and solidifies its active role on the global stage.' Hamad Obaid AlMansoori, Chairman, MBRSC, said: 'The successful launch of Etihad-SAT is a testament to the support and vision of our leadership, reflecting the progress the UAE is making in the space sector and further reinforcing its contributions in this domain. This achievement reflects our commitment to advancing the UAE National Space Programme and a part of our ambitious strategy to drive innovation and space technology development. It aligns with a long-term vision aimed at empowering future generations to contribute to sustainable progress in space exploration. We will continue to work towards achieving further milestones and reinforce the UAE's position as a key player in this sector.' Ee-Eul Kim, CEO & President, Satrec Initiative, said: 'We extend our heartfelt congratulations to the UAE on the successful launch of Etihad-SAT, a remarkable achievement. This milestone not only strengthens the UAE's capabilities in Earth observation but also highlights the importance of international collaboration. As a long-standing partner, Satrec Initiative is proud to collaborate with MBRSC to develop high-resolution SAR satellite. We look forward to continued cooperation with MBRSC and the UAE in shaping the future of space technology.' Etihad-SAT represents a technological leap in MBRSC's satellite fleet, integrating radar imaging technology with existing optical satellite capabilities. The satellite is equipped with advanced SAR technology that enables high-precision Earth observation across all weather and environmental conditions during both day and night. The satellite offers three imaging modes: spot mode (high-resolution imaging for small areas), scan mode (wide-area coverage for large regions) and strip mode (extended observation for longer regions). These features make Etihad-SAT a powerful tool for multiple industries, from detecting oil spills and managing natural disasters to enhancing maritime navigation, supporting smart agriculture, and conducting environmental monitoring. The data collected by Etihad-SAT will be processed using AI technology, enhancing the accuracy and efficiency of its applications. SAR technology is one of the most advanced Earth observation techniques, allowing satellites to capture high-resolution images of the Earth's surface regardless of weather conditions, time of day, or atmospheric interference. Unlike traditional optical cameras, radar imaging relies on radio waves that penetrate clouds, darkness, and even rain, making it a powerful tool for consistent and uninterrupted data collection. The satellite will be operated and managed by MBRSC's Mission Control Centre, with specialised teams overseeing operations and analyse the data transmitted back to Earth. Copyright 2024 Al Hilal Publishing and Marketing Group Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
Trade Arabia
16-03-2025
- Science
- Trade Arabia
UAE launches first Synthetic Aperture Radar satellite
The UAE's Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC) on Saturday announced the successful launch of its first Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) satellite, Etihad-SAT. The satellite launched from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California, USA, aboard a Falcon 9 rocket at 10:43 AM (UAE time). The team at the ground station in Dubai subsequently confirmed receiving the first signal from the satellite at 12:04 PM (UAE time), said a Wam news agency report. Etihad-SAT represents a significant milestone in MBRSC's Satellite Development Programme, as the first of its kind satellite equipped with SAR imaging technology. The advanced capability will enhance the Centre's Earth observation capabilities by providing high-resolution images in all weather conditions, while further reinforcing the UAE's commitment to developing innovative space solutions. Etihad-SAT was developed through a strategic partnership with South Korea's Satrec Initiative. MBRSC's team led the technical specifications phase before moving on to preliminary design and technical validation to ensure compliance with the highest global standards. In the later stages, MBRSC engineers took the lead in finalising the design and manufacturing in partnership with Satrec Initiative. The development is in line with MBRSC's commitment to enhancing national space capabilities through knowledge transfer and the localisation of advanced technologies. Talal Humaid Belhoul Al Falasi, Vice President, MBRSC, said: 'The UAE is steadily advancing towards strengthening its position among the leading nations in space science and technology, guided by the vision of our leadership and its continuous support for this vital sector. We express our gratitude for this support, which has resulted today in a new achievement with the launch of Etihad-SAT. The satellite represents a strategic step in enhancing our Earth observation capabilities and gathering critical data that supports sustainable development. This milestone also paves the way for leveraging space technologies across various fields that serve the nation. We remain dedicated to achieving sustainable technological advancement that strengthens our country's position and solidifies its active role on the global stage.' Hamad Obaid AlMansoori, Chairman, MBRSC, said: 'The successful launch of Etihad-SAT is a testament to the support and vision of our leadership, reflecting the progress the UAE is making in the space sector and further reinforcing its contributions in this domain. This achievement reflects our commitment to advancing the UAE National Space Programme and a part of our ambitious strategy to drive innovation and space technology development. It aligns with a long-term vision aimed at empowering future generations to contribute to sustainable progress in space exploration. We will continue to work towards achieving further milestones and reinforce the UAE's position as a key player in this sector.' Ee-Eul Kim, CEO & President, Satrec Initiative, said: 'We extend our heartfelt congratulations to the UAE on the successful launch of Etihad-SAT, a remarkable achievement. This milestone not only strengthens the UAE's capabilities in Earth observation but also highlights the importance of international collaboration. As a long-standing partner, Satrec Initiative is proud to collaborate with MBRSC to develop high-resolution SAR satellite. We look forward to continued cooperation with MBRSC and the UAE in shaping the future of space technology.' Etihad-SAT represents a technological leap in MBRSC's satellite fleet, integrating radar imaging technology with existing optical satellite capabilities. The satellite is equipped with advanced SAR technology that enables high-precision Earth observation across all weather and environmental conditions during both day and night. The satellite offers three imaging modes: spot mode (high-resolution imaging for small areas), scan mode (wide-area coverage for large regions) and strip mode (extended observation for longer regions). These features make Etihad-SAT a powerful tool for multiple industries, from detecting oil spills and managing natural disasters to enhancing maritime navigation, supporting smart agriculture, and conducting environmental monitoring. The data collected by Etihad-SAT will be processed using AI technology, enhancing the accuracy and efficiency of its applications. SAR technology is one of the most advanced Earth observation techniques, allowing satellites to capture high-resolution images of the Earth's surface regardless of weather conditions, time of day, or atmospheric interference. Unlike traditional optical cameras, radar imaging relies on radio waves that penetrate clouds, darkness, and even rain, making it a powerful tool for consistent and uninterrupted data collection. The satellite will be operated and managed by MBRSC's Mission Control Centre, with specialised teams overseeing operations and analyse the data transmitted back to Earth.
Gulf Insider
16-03-2025
- Science
- Gulf Insider
Look: UAE Satellite Etihad-SAT Beams Back First Signal to Earth
The Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC) announced receiving the first signal from Etihad-SAT, its first Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) satellite. It represents a technological leap in MBRSC's satellite fleet, integrating radar imaging technology with existing optical satellite capabilities. Unlike traditional optical cameras, radar imaging relies on radio waves that penetrate clouds, darkness, and even rain, making it a powerful tool for consistent and uninterrupted data collection. Talal Humaid Belhoul Al Falasi, Vice President of MBRSC, noted that the UAE is steadily advancing towards strengthening its position among the leading nations in space science and technology, guided by the vision and support of the leadership. 'This milestone paves the way for leveraging space technologies across various fields that serve the nation.' Etihad-SAT was developed through a strategic partnership with South Korea's Satrec Initiative. MBRSC's team led the technical specifications phase before moving on to preliminary design and technical validation to ensure compliance with the highest global standards. In the later stages, MBRSC engineers took the lead in finalising the design and manufacturing in partnership with Satrec Initiative. Hamad Obaid AlMansoori, Chairman of MBRSC, said the successful launch of Etihad-SAT reflects the progress made by the UAE in the space sector. 'This achievement reflects our commitment to advancing the UAE National Space Programme and is part of our ambitious strategy to drive innovation and space technology development.' Salem Humaid AlMarri, Director General of MBRSC, said the achievement highlights the UAE's capability to develop cutting-edge space technologies while maintaining strategic partnerships with the global space community. 'These collaborations are essential for knowledge exchange and advancing joint efforts, ultimately helping us achieve ambitious goals in space science and technology.' Ee-Eul Kim, CEO & President, Satrec Initiative, said the milestone highlights the importance of international collaboration. 'We look forward to continued cooperation with MBRSC and the UAE in shaping the future of space technology.' Asmaa AlJanaahi, Specialist, Image Processing Section at MBRSC, Asmaa pointed out that the data provided by Etihad-SAT will be processed using AI-powered technologies. 'Etihad-SAT transmits electromagnetic radar waves towards Earth, which then strikes various materials and bounce back. The reflectance varies between different materials based on their physical properties,' Asmaa said. 'When these waves are reflected back to the satellite, it collects data that is analysed using artificial intelligence to generate high-resolution imagery. The process functions effectively in different weather conditions and even at night,' she noted. Abdullah Harmoul, Project Manager, Etihad-SAT, explained the imaging modes used by the advanced SAR satellite for Earth observation. 'The Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) satellite Etihad-SAT provides precise imaging of Earth in three modes. The first one is spot mode, which covers small areas with higher resolution imaging. The second is scan mode, which provides wider area coverage, and the third is strip mode, which provides longer coverage,' Harmoul said. These features make Etihad-SAT a powerful tool for multiple industries, from detecting oil spills and managing natural disasters to enhancing maritime navigation, supporting smart agriculture, and conducting environmental monitoring. The satellite will be operated and managed by MBRSC's Mission Control Centre, with specialised teams overseeing operations and analyse the data transmitted back to Earth.
