In a groundbreaking achievement, Abu Dhabi-based Space42 (ADX: SPACE42), an innovative SpaceTech company driven by artificial intelligence, successfully launched its Thuraya 4 (T4) telecommunications satellite into orbit. This significant milestone not only elevates Space42’s offerings in high-quality geospatial data and analytics but also advances its capabilities in secure connectivity and non-terrestrial networks (NTN).

Launch Details: A New Chapter in Space42's Journey

The Thuraya 4 satellite was launched aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida at 20:23 Eastern Time. Following its successful deployment, the satellite initiated its Electrical Orbit Raising (EOR) using onboard electrical thrusters—a process expected to take several months as it ascends to its operational geostationary orbit at 44° East, approximately 36,000 kilometers above the Earth’s surface.

This launch is poised to significantly enhance telecommunications capabilities not only for Space42 but also for a variety of sectors, including defense, government, and enterprise. As one of the largest Mobile Satellite Service (MSS) communication satellites ever constructed, Thuraya 4 is aligned with Space42's ambitious strategy to roll out more than 15 new products in response to the rising demand for mobile connectivity.

Revolutionizing Communication Across Multiple Regions

The Thuraya 4 satellite will deliver enhanced security, faster data speeds, and broader coverage across Africa, Europe, Central Asia, and the Middle East. Karim Michel Sabbagh, managing director of Space42, emphasized the importance of this milestone, stating, “The launch lays the groundwork for our future mobile satellite solutions and strengthens our position as leaders in the global SatCom industry, all while propelling the UAE’s space ambitions forward.”

A Pioneering Step in Global Connectivity

Ali Al Hashemi, CEO of Yahsat Space Services, echoed Sabbagh’s sentiments, calling the launch a monumental step for Space42. He stressed the company’s commitment to leveraging disruptive technologies and exploring emerging business sectors, including direct-to-device services and the Internet of Things (IoT). This strategic evolution aims to diversify Space42's global offerings and meet the needs of an increasingly connected world.

A Partnership of Excellence: Airbus’s Role

The success of the Thuraya 4 launch is also a testament to the robust collaboration with Airbus. Alain Fauré, head of Space Systems at Airbus, expressed enthusiasm about the launch, highlighting the advanced Airbus Eurostar Neo platform employed in Thuraya 4’s construction. This cutting-edge satellite features a 12-meter antenna operating in L-band and a sophisticated payload capable of dynamic power distribution across a staggering 3,200 channels. The agile routing capabilities enable seamless connectivity for various applications.

UAE's Vision for a Stellar Future

The successful deployment of Thuraya 4 reaffirms the UAE’s commitment to leading advancements in the global SpaceTech industry, which aligns with its National Space Strategy 2030. As Space42 continues to push boundaries and innovate, the launch sets a compelling precedent for future developments in satellite communication technology.

Stay tuned as Abu Dhabi's Space42 transforms the telecommunications landscape, shaping the future of connectivity and paving the way for new technological frontiers!