Today's Edition
SHARJAH (WAM)
His Highness Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah and President of the University of Sharjah (UOS), observed on Monday evening via a live broadcast the launch of the SharjahSat 2 cube satellite, aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket.
His Highness witnessed the launch from the headquarters of the Sharjah Space and Astronomy Hub at the University of Sharjah, where it was beamed live from the Vandenberg Air Base in California, USA.
His Highness Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed extended congratulations to UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, and the people of the UAE on the successful launch of SharjahSat 2.
He emphasised that SharjahSat 2 marks a new milestone in the emirate's journey towards strengthening its position in the fields of space science and advanced technology. It supports scientific research, and empowers young national talent to contribute effectively to shaping the future.
His Highness explained that SharjahSat 2 is the second project in the series of cube satellites that the Sharjah Space and Astronomy Hub is developing with the assistance of Emirati engineers. This confirms the continuity of the scientific and technical approach adopted by the emirate, and enhances the capabilities of students and researchers in satellite design and operation.
It also contributes to preparing an empowered generation equipped with tools of innovation and knowledge to keep pace with global developments in the space sector.
His Highness Sheikh Sultan highlighted that the achievement is a result of the collaborative efforts of academic and research institutions across the country. It reflects the UAE's dedication to strengthening its presence in the space sector, both regionally and internationally.
He also emphasised that the upcoming phase will involve more innovative projects that promote sustainable development, and provide greater opportunities for young people to contribute to national progress.
Professor Hamid Majoul Al Nuaimi, advisor to the President of the University of Sharjah and Director of Sharjah Space and Astronomy Hub, confirmed that the SharjahSat 2 satellite is part of a series of satellites that the hub is developing as part of an integrated scientific programme. The programme aims to enable students and researchers to gain comprehensive practical experience in designing, developing, operating, and analysing satellites, and enhance the role of national talents in the space sector.
Al Nuaimi explained that the project represents the culmination of years of continuous scientific and engineering efforts, carried out by a team of researchers and engineers, in collaboration with various government agencies in the emirate. It reflects a model of integration between scientific institutions and supporting bodies.
Al Nuaimi pointed out that the satellite will provide high-quality data and images that can be utilised in multiple fields, including environmental studies, urban planning, monitoring surface changes, and supporting scientific research in space sciences.
Amal Al Hammadi explained the features of the SharjahSat 2 cube satellite and its advanced technical specifications, highlighting its journey to space, where it launched into low Earth orbit at an estimated altitude of about 500 kilometres above the Earth's surface. This position allows it to perform its tasks efficiently, supporting fields such as scientific research, Earth observation, and the development of modern space technologies.
Al Hammadi explained that after the successful launch, the satellite's pilot phase, which will last about three months, will be used to ensure the efficiency of its systems. This will be followed by the operational phase, allowing stakeholders to take periodic images of the Emirate of Sharjah and the UAE for purposes of monitoring and analysis.
His Highness Sultan bin Ahmed, accompanied by members of the university's Board of Trustees, directors of institutions, senior officials, and attendees, watched the launch of the Falcon 9 rocket, carrying SharjahSat 2.
He listened to an explanation about the stages of satellite transmission, from the rocket’s launch at its base to its separation and the satellite's entry into orbit.
After the successful launch of the cube satellite, His Highness signed a splaque, and greeted a team of Emirati engineers who contributed to the achievement, congratulating them on the success of the project, and thanking and appreciating the government agencies supporting the project, including Sharjah Electricity, Water and Gas Authority, the Department of Planning and Survey, and Sharjah Municipality.
The SharjahSat 2 composite satellite aims to deliver high-resolution spectral images and data, providing participating entities with essential information to boost their research and practical activities. It will support future plans, and improve the strategic planning of upcoming projects in the Emirate of Sharjah.
The SharjahSat 2 Cube Satellite project comprises five sub-systems, following the structure used in cube satellites. It includes:
-the energy system, which powers the satellite using solar panels and batteries to store energy
-the communications system, enabling contact with the satellite and data reception
-the control and guidance system, ensuring precise stability and navigation
-the data processing system, responsible for managing and analysing information
-the external structure, providing protection and support to the other systems
The project aims to provide partners with high-quality scientific data and images that can be utilised across various fields, notably urban planning, monitoring of urban growth and trends, study of the environment through tracking land degradation, desertification, and human-induced transformations, as well as support of risk management through observation.
