The United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Bahrain have made significant advances in space exploration by launching two satellites dedicated to Earth monitoring and climate tracking. The Saturday launch marks a key milestone in both Gulf nations’ expanding space ambitions.
Etihad-SAT, an advanced radar satellite created by the Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC), was successfully launched from California’s Vandenberg Air Force Base at 10:39 a.m. UAE time (0639 GMT). The satellite, sent into orbit by SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket, is designed to record high-resolution photographs in all weather situations. It will be vital in monitoring environmental changes, detecting oil spills, tracking maritime movements, and improving smart agriculture operations.
Bahrain also made history by launching its first satellite, Al-Munther, at 9:39 a.m. Bahrain time (0639 GMT), using the same Falcon 9 rocket. The satellite is equipped with artificial intelligence (AI), which allows it to analyse photos in space, saving data processing time. It will promote environmental monitoring, research desertification, and help with urban planning and food security.
Mohamed Ibrahim Al Aseeri, CEO of Bahrain’s National Space Science Agency, stated that this launch marks a significant step forward for Bahrain’s rising presence in the global space sector.
