ICEYE
Space42, a space technology company that has its headquarters in Abu Dhabi, deployed the second phase of its Foresight satellite constellation on Tuesday as the UAE continues its push to compete with the world’s leaders in the industry.
The project is in collaboration with ICEYE, a provider of high-resolution images of the earth’s surface.
The satellites will provide high-quality images around the clock, regardless of weather conditions or solar illumination. This will allow the tracking and monitoring of smaller objects and minute surface changes from space, helping address critical challenges such as disaster mitigation, maritime surveillance, and urban mobility.
The orbiting spacecraft will revisit the Middle East frequently, providing near real-time, high-definition images of on-the-ground conditions across the region and beyond.
The Foresight-2 spacecraft lifted off aboard the Transporter-12 Rideshare mission using a SpaceX rocket. It has established communication, with early routine operations underway.
In December last year, Space42 and ICEYE announced a joint venture to manufacture SAR satellites in the UAE.
The UAE’s earth observation space programme was created in 2023.
Space42 was established last year following the successful merger between Bayanat and Yahsat. The company’s major shareholders include G42, Mubadala and International Holding Company.
