Space42 Launches Thuraya 4 Satellite, Transforming Global Telecommunications Landscape

Space42 Successfully Launches Thuraya 4 Satellite



On January 5, 2025, Space42, a cutting-edge SpaceTech firm headquartered in the UAE, achieved a major milestone by successfully launching its telecommunications satellite, Thuraya 4 (T4). The launch took place aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from Cape Canaveral, Florida, marking a pivotal moment for the company and the region's ambitions in the SpaceTech arena.

Thuraya 4 represents the sixth geostationary (GEO) satellite for Space42, significantly boosting the firm's capacity, speed, and coverage throughout Africa, Europe, Central Asia, and the Middle East. The new satellite plays a crucial role in advancing the company's plans to introduce over 15 innovative products aimed at addressing the growing demand across various sectors, including defense and government.

Upon reaching orbit, the satellite initiated its Electrical Orbit Raising (EOR) to attain its geostationary position at 44° East, approximately 36,000 kilometers above Earth—a process expected to take several months. The robust mobile telecommunications system of Thuraya 4 is anticipated to enhance connectivity and innovation, contributing to the UAE’s national Space Strategy 2030 initiative.

His Excellency Mansoor Al Mansoori, Chairman of Space42, emphasized the importance of this launch, stating it underscores the UAE's commitment to innovation and leadership in the global SpaceTech industry. He stated, “The successful launch of Thuraya 4 reflects our efforts to push the boundaries of innovation while solidifying the UAE’s position in the global SpaceTech sector.”

The Managing Director of Space42, Karim Michel Sabbagh, noted that the launch is a foundational step for the company’s next-generation mobile satellite solutions, expanding its offerings and opening new avenues for technological advancements. “This launch consolidates our leadership position in the global satellite communications market and reinforces our commitment to driving innovation in the telecommunications sector,” he said.

Alongside these developments, Ali Al Hashemi, CEO at Yahsat Space Services, commented that the successful deployment of Thuraya 4 represents a significant advancement in their pursuit of becoming a global leader in non-terrestrial networks. He stated, “We are proud of today’s accomplishment, which brings us closer to our strategic goal of expanding our service offerings in fast-evolving fields such as Direct-to-Device and the Internet of Things.”

Representing Airbus, Alain Fauré, Head of Space Systems, echoed the significance of the launch by expressing pride in their collaboration with Space42. “The successful deployment of Thuraya 4 marks a new chapter in our historical partnership with Space42. This satellite will enhance the flexibility of their communication satellite fleet, ensuring continued excellence in service delivery.”

The Thuraya 4 satellite is built on the advanced Airbus Eurostar Neo platform and features a 12-meter L-band antenna along with sophisticated onboard processing capabilities. This configuration allows for superior routing flexibility with up to 3,200 channels, showcasing the advanced technology integrated into its design.

The successful launch of Thuraya 4 reinforces the commitment of the UAE to elevate its SpaceTech sector on a global scale. As the space sector continues to burgeon, Space42’s strides in launching advanced satellites reflect a commitment to innovation, paving the way for an interconnected future.

Conclusion


The launch of Thuraya 4 is not just a victory for Space42, but a significant step forward for the UAE’s aspirations in the SpaceTech domain, reinforcing its commitment to global leadership and technological innovation. With the market debut of new products on the horizon, stakeholders across various sectors are sure to benefit from enhanced satellite communication capabilities, ultimately transforming the telecommunications landscape.

Topics Telecommunications)

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