Space42 and ICEYE Launch Three SAR Satellites for UAE Constellation
Abu Dhabi: Space42, a UAE-based AI-driven SpaceTech firm, and ICEYE, a global leader in Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) satellite operations, have successfully launched three new SAR satellites Foresight-3, Foresight-4, and Foresight-5 into Low Earth Orbit. The satellites lifted off aboard the Bandwagon-4 rideshare mission from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida and have already established communication. Routine operations have begun, marking another major milestone in Earth Observation technology.
This expansion enhances the Foresight Constellation, which first began in August 2024 and grew further with a January 2025 launch. By combining SAR imagery with Space42’s AI-powered platform, GIQ, the constellation accelerates the delivery of real-time, decision-grade geospatial intelligence to governments, industries, and partners worldwide.
Advancing Global Geospatial Intelligence
The Foresight Constellation’s key strength lies in its advanced geospatial intelligence capabilities. Operating at a 25-centimeter resolution, it converts continuous visibility into actionable, real-time insights that enhance accuracy and responsiveness. The system delivers faster detection of change and ensures lower latency in intelligence sharing, improving decision-making efficiency across various sectors.
The constellation’s integration of AI and SAR data provides sharper imaging, higher revisit rates, and improved monitoring for critical infrastructure and environmental events. This technology positions the UAE as a growing hub for satellite-based intelligence and data-driven innovation.
Strengthening the UAE’s Space Leadership
Across industries, the value of SAR constellations continues to rise. During Turkey’s 2023 earthquake, SAR imaging confirmed the safety of the Atatürk Dam when other systems failed. Similarly, in 2024, SAR technology proved crucial during the UAE’s historic flooding, demonstrating its reliability under extreme conditions.
The global SAR market is expected to grow from AED 21.3 billion ($5.8 billion) to AED 35.9 billion ($9.8 billion) by 2030. Governments can use this technology to improve emergency responses by up to 90 percent, while industries can cut maintenance and operational costs substantially.
The Foresight Constellation also embodies international collaboration, with satellites built in Finland, tested and integrated in Abu Dhabi, and launched from the United States. This distributed manufacturing model accelerates innovation and strengthens the UAE’s presence in the global space sector.
With Foresight-1 and Foresight-2 already in orbit, the addition of three more satellites enhances decision accuracy and moves the UAE closer to full constellation maturity by 2027. The initiative aligns with the UAE’s National Space Strategy 2030, reinforcing its leadership in Earth Observation, geospatial intelligence, and advanced satellite manufacturing.
