Space42 Marks a New Era with the Successful Launch of Thuraya 4 Satellite

Thuraya 4 Satellite Launched Successfully by Space42

Space42, an AI-driven space technology company based in the UAE, has achieved a significant milestone with the successful launch of its telecommunications satellite, Thuraya 4. On January 6, 2025, the satellite was launched aboard a Falcon 9 rocket from Cape Canaveral, Florida, at 2:26 AM ET. This mission is considered pivotal in Space42's quest to enhance its geospatial data services and provide cutting-edge connectivity solutions worldwide.

Upon its launch, the Thuraya 4 satellite deployed its integrated electric propulsion system, initiating the Electric Orbit Raising (EOR) phase. This crucial operation will last for several months as the satellite reaches its operational geostationary orbit at approximately 36,000 kilometers above the Earth.

Thuraya 4 significantly enhances Space42's capabilities in next-generation mobile telecommunications. As one of the largest MSS communication satellites ever built, it plays an essential role in the company's plans to introduce more than 15 new products addressing the rising demand across various sectors, including defense, government, and enterprise.

Mansoor Al Mansoori, the president of Space42, remarked that the successful launch exemplifies their commitment to pushing the boundaries of innovation and fortifying the UAE's global leadership in the space technology sector. He emphasized that this achievement not only enhances Space42's ability to reshape the future of connectivity but also aligns with the UAE's ambitious National Space Strategy 2030.

Karim Michel Sabbagh, the CEO of Space42, reiterated this sentiment, stating that the launch marks a transformative chapter for the company. He highlighted the potential for next-generation satellite mobility solutions, expanding their offerings to partners and clients and paving the way for further innovation in the industry.

Ali Al Hashemi, CEO of Yahsat Space Services, a branch of Space42, noted that the Thuraya 4 launch continues a tradition of disruptive technology and innovation. He conveyed pride in this major achievement as Space42 pursues its strategic goal of becoming a leader in Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTN) and tapping into emerging commercial segments, including IoT and direct device connectivity.

According to Alain Fauré, head of Space Systems at Airbus, the successful launch opens a new chapter in the partnership between Airbus and Space42. He mentioned that the Thuraya 4 satellite, which was transported to its launch site by an Airbus Beluga, will offer enhanced flexibility for Space42's communications satellite fleet.

The Thuraya division of Yahsat Space Services utilizes the state-of-the-art Airbus Eurostar Neo platform, featuring advanced onboard processing capabilities. The satellite has a 12-meter L-band antenna that allows dynamic power allocation across up to 3,200 channels with unparalleled routing flexibility.

The successful deployment of Thuraya 4 underscores the UAE's ambition to elevate its space technology sector, furthering the aims of the National Space Strategy 2030.

As this new satellite embarks on its mission, the prospects for enhanced connectivity, security, and speed across Africa, Europe, Central Asia, and the Middle East are now more promising than ever, paving the way for broader applications in numerous sectors.

This strategic endeavor is not only a leap forward for Space42 but also a testament to the UAE’s growing influence in the global space landscape, aligning perfectly with aspirations for future advancements in technology and connectivity.