MBRSC Achieves Milestone With Successful Launch Of Etihad-SAT Satellite For Earth Observation

The Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC) has successfully launched its first Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) satellite, Etihad-SAT. The launch took place from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California, USA, using a Falcon 9 rocket at 10:43 AM UAE time. The ground station team in Dubai confirmed the satellite's first signal reception at 12:04 PM UAE time.

Etihad-SAT marks a significant achievement for MBRSC’s Satellite Development Programme as it is the first satellite equipped with SAR imaging technology. This advanced capability will enhance Earth observation by providing high-resolution images under all weather conditions. It also reinforces the UAE’s commitment to innovative space solutions.

Developed through a strategic partnership with South Korea’s Satrec Initiative, Etihad-SAT involved MBRSC leading the technical specifications phase. They ensured compliance with global standards before finalising design and manufacturing alongside Satrec Initiative. This aligns with MBRSC’s goal of enhancing national space capabilities through knowledge transfer and localisation of advanced technologies.

Talal Humaid Belhoul Al Falasi, Vice President of MBRSC, stated, "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."

Etihad-SAT represents a technological leap in MBRSC’s satellite fleet by integrating radar imaging technology with existing optical capabilities. The satellite features advanced SAR technology enabling high-precision Earth observation across all weather conditions during both day and night. It offers three imaging modes: spot mode for small areas, scan mode for large regions, and strip mode for extended observation.

The satellite's capabilities make it valuable across various industries such as detecting oil spills, managing natural disasters, enhancing maritime navigation, supporting smart agriculture, and conducting environmental monitoring. Data collected by Etihad-SAT will be processed using AI technology to improve accuracy and efficiency.

International Collaboration and Future Prospects

Hamad Obaid AlMansoori, Chairman of MBRSC, highlighted that "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." He emphasised that this achievement aligns with their strategy to drive innovation and empower future generations in sustainable space exploration.

SAR technology is one of the most advanced Earth observation techniques available today. It allows satellites to capture high-resolution images regardless of weather conditions or time of day. Unlike traditional optical cameras that rely on light, radar imaging uses radio waves that penetrate clouds and darkness.

The satellite will be operated by MBRSC’s Mission Control Centre where specialised teams will manage operations and analyse data transmitted back to Earth. This ensures consistent data collection without interruptions due to atmospheric interference.

Ee-Eul Kim, CEO & President of Satrec Initiative expressed congratulations saying "We extend our heartfelt congratulations to the UAE on the successful launch of Etihad-SAT." He noted how this milestone strengthens UAE’s capabilities while highlighting international collaboration importance.

With inputs from WAM