In a historic milestone for the UAE's space program, the Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC) has successfully launched the country's first Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) satellite, Etihad-SAT. The launch took place aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California at 10:43 AM UAE time on March 17, 2025. The satellite’s ground station in Dubai confirmed the receipt of its first signal at 12:04 PM UAE time, marking the successful deployment of the state-of-the-art spacecraft.
Etihad-SAT, equipped with advanced SAR imaging technology, represents a significant leap forward in the UAE's space exploration and Earth observation capabilities. SAR satellites use radar waves to capture high-resolution images of the Earth's surface, even in cloudy conditions and during nighttime, providing invaluable data for various applications, including disaster management, agriculture, environmental monitoring, and maritime security.
The satellite was built in collaboration with South Korea's Satrec Initiative, as part of MBRSC's Satellite Development Programme. The collaboration emphasizes technology localization and knowledge transfer, empowering the UAE to develop and operate its satellite technologies. Etihad-SAT is designed to operate in three modes: spot mode for detailed images of smaller areas, scan mode for wider coverage, and strip mode for longer distances, making it versatile for multiple uses.
The successful launch of Etihad-SAT further strengthens the UAE's commitment to space exploration and technological advancement. The satellite’s data will enhance national infrastructure and support sustainable development initiatives. This achievement is a testament to the UAE’s growing space capabilities and reinforces its vision of becoming a global leader in space science and technology.
With this achievement, the UAE continues to pave the way for future advancements in space exploration and further solidifies its place in the global space community.
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