Etihad-SAT Set to Launch in March 2025 Aboard SpaceX’s Falcon 9
The Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC) has unveiled details regarding the impending launch of its first Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) satellite, Etihad-SAT. Developed in collaboration with South Korea’s Satrec Initiative, this satellite is scheduled for launch in the first week of March 2025 using SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket from the Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, USA.
Milestone in Satellite Development Programme
Etihad-SAT represents a significant milestone in MBRSC’s Satellite Development Programme. As the first satellite with SAR imaging technology, Etihad-SAT will significantly enhance the Centre’s Earth observation capabilities. This advanced technology allows the satellite to capture high-resolution images under all weather conditions. Additionally, it will contribute to advancing the UAE’s expertise in satellite technology, as reported by Dubai Media Office.
New Mission for UAE Space Sector
H.E. Hamad Obaid AlMansoori, chairman of MBRSC, commented on the milestone: “The launch of Etihad-SAT reflects the UAE’s commitment to strengthening its capabilities in the space sector by adopting the latest advancements in satellite development. Adding a SAR satellite to our fleet expands our ability to provide solutions that support our journey toward a knowledge and innovation-based economy. We will continue our mission to develop ambitious space projects that enhance our ability to tackle global challenges, provide innovative solutions that support environmental sustainability, and drive technological progress.”
Echoing this sentiment, H.E. Salem Humaid AlMarri, director general of MBRSC, remarked, “Etihad-SAT is the result of our collaboration with Satrec Initiative as part of a knowledge-transfer programme, marking a new milestone that enables us to gain expertise in SAR satellite development. With its advanced capabilities, the satellite will support many vital sectors in the UAE. This mission is a testament to our commitment to developing innovative space solutions that contribute to sustainable development, strengthen the national economy, and enhance the UAE’s standing in the global space industry.”
Development Phase of Etihad-SAT
The development of Etihad-SAT began two years ago as part of a knowledge transfer programme with South Korea’s Satrec Initiative. Initially, the MBRSC team focused on defining the satellite’s specifications and requirements before moving on to the preliminary design and technical testing phase. This ensured that the satellite met the highest industry standards.
In the following phase, MBRSC engineers, in collaboration with experts from Satrec Initiative, led the final design and manufacturing processes. This collaboration underscores the UAE’s dedication to global cooperation in space technology.
Advanced SAR Technology
Etihad-SAT is equipped with state-of-the-art SAR technology, enabling high-precision Earth observation in all weather conditions and 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 valuable resource for various industries, including oil spill detection, natural disaster management, maritime navigation, smart agriculture, and environmental monitoring.
SAR technology is one of the most advanced Earth observation techniques. It allows 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 uses radio waves that can penetrate clouds, darkness, and rain, making it a powerful tool for consistent and continuous data collection.
Operational Integration and Future Prospects
Upon deployment, Etihad-SAT will join the UAE’s existing fleet of satellites, significantly enhancing MBRSC’s remote sensing capabilities. MBRSC will oversee the satellite’s operations, ensuring rapid data exchange and processing, supported by artificial intelligence.
This mission reaffirms the UAE’s commitment to developing innovative space solutions that contribute to sustainable development, strengthen the national economy, and elevate the country’s status in the global space industry.
