Today's Edition
SARA ALZAABI (ABU DHABI)
With the launch of Etihad-SAT - the UAE's first satellite equipped with synthetic aperture radar (SAR) technology, the country is making a significant leap toward realising its space ambitions - a top official at the Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC) told Aletihad.
Amer AlSayegh AlGhaferi, Assistant Director General of the Aerospace Engineering Sector at MBRSC, said this SAR satellite would enhance Earth observation, remote sensing, as well as national infrastructure planning.
"Etihad-SAT is a major step forward in the UAE's space sector, as it is MBRSC's first satellite equipped with Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) technology and complements our current fleet of satellites," AlGhaferi said.
"SAR imaging enables high-resolution Earth observation in all weather conditions, day and night, ensuring a continuous stream of critical data. This enhances the UAE's ability to monitor environmental changes, support disaster management efforts, and strengthen infrastructure planning, and more."
Unlike traditional optical satellites, SAR technology penetrates the cloud covers, dark interiors, and any adverse weather to provide uninterrupted Earth observation.
"SAR emits radio waves that bounce back, generating detailed images regardless of external factors," AlGhaferi said.
"This makes it invaluable for monitoring environmental changes, tracking geological changes, mapping urban expansion, and ensuring maritime movement. The UAE's integration of SAR technology strengthens its ability to gather real-time, actionable data for various industries."
It will boost the country's high-resolution remote sensing capabilities to cover large areas at once.
"Its multi-mode imaging allows for tailored data collection, ensuring flexibility and accuracy in different research and operational applications," he said.
In this respect, its advanced imaging can significantly contribute to ongoing activity monitoring in sectors such as environmental surveillance, agriculture, maritime tracking, urban planning, and disaster management.
It will support several domains - from climate monitoring and precision-farming, to marine safety, infrastructure, and emergency response.
Strengthening National Expertise
Built through a strategic partnership with the South Korean Satrec Initiative, Etihad-SAT has strengthened national expertise in space technology.
"The UAE's collaboration with South Korea's Satrec Initiative has played a vital role in expanding national expertise in space technology, and this is our third collaborative project. We first partnered with Satrec Initiative during the development of DubaiSat-1 and DubaiSat-2. The MBRSC led the technical specifications and design validation, ensuring the satellite adhered to the highest global standards," AlGhaferi said.
The partnership, he said, strengthens UAE competence in the arena of space technology while enhancing collaborative efforts toward global space research.
Etihad-SAT's AI Capabilities
Artificial intelligence (AI) bolsters the data processing capability of the UAE's newest satellite in space.
"Artificial intelligence plays a crucial role in enhancing the efficiency and accuracy of Etihad-SAT's data analysis. AI algorithms will process vast amounts of satellite imagery, automatically identifying patterns, detecting anomalies, and generating actionable insights for decision-makers," AlGhaferi said.
"This significantly reduces the time needed to interpret complex datasets, enabling faster responses in fields like environmental monitoring, infrastructure development, and disaster management. AI will also help refine imaging techniques, improving the precision of data outputs and making them more accessible for different industries."
The orbiter's three imaging modes are: Spot Mode for thorough analysis; Scan Mode to cover greater areas; and Strip Mode to monitor large regions.
Solidifying a Leading Role in Space Innovation
Etihad-SAT strengthens the UAE's commitment to space innovation and its competitiveness in satellite technologies.
AlGhaferi said: "The UAE is committed to maintaining a leading role in space innovation by focusing on indigenous satellite development, strategic partnerships, and the development of a local aerospace ecosystem."
Such initiatives will allow the MBRSC to continue training Emirati engineers, take the advancement of AI integration, and develop next-generation technologies within the Satellite Development Programme.
The satellite forms part of the UAE's growing space fleet, along with KhalifaSat and MBZ-SAT.
"This integration enhances the UAE's ability to combine optical and radar data, creating a more comprehensive Earth observation system," AlGhaferi said.
Under the operational control of the MBRSC Mission Control Centre, Etihad-SAT lays the foundation for future radar satellite innovations and continuous technological advancement in the UAE's space sector.
The Etihad-SAT team works towards establishing research and technological self-sufficiency in industry growth to help build the UAE's vision of a knowledge-based economy.
"The satellite's launch not only advances national expertise in space technology but also paves the way for new industries, high-skilled jobs, and research opportunities," AlGhaferi stressed.
Etihad-SAT leverages space data to drive scientific progress, enhance environmental management, and support sustainable development - in turn establishing the UAE as a leader in global space innovation and research.
