Today's Edition
SARA ALZAABI (ABU DHABI)
The launch of "Sharjah-Sat-2" aboard Falcon 9 by SpaceX at Vandenberg Air Base in California, US, on March 30, marked a new phase in the emirate's efforts to strengthen its position in space science and advanced technology.
Developed by the Sharjah Space and Astronomy Hub with the assistance of Emirati engineers, the satellite is part of an ongoing cube satellite programme aimed at supporting research, enhancing technical capabilities, and empowering young national talent.
It will provide high-quality data and imagery for applications such as urban planning, environmental monitoring, and risk management.
High-resolution Spectral Images and Data
Speaking to Aletihad, Tarifa Alkaabi, Space Technology Engineer at Sharjah Space and Astronomy Hub, noted that the data provided by Sharjah-Sat-2 can support a range of applications across different sectors.
"Its hyperspectral imaging capability enables more detailed analysis of land surface characteristics, which can support entities working in areas such as urban planning and environmental monitoring."
She added that this allows for more evidence-based decision-making, including monitoring land use changes, assessing vegetation health, and tracking changes over time.
Although the satellite is not designed for continuous real-time monitoring, "the data it provides can still be valuable for post-event assessment and analysis, which can support emergency response efforts," Alkaabi added.
The focus, she said, is to ensure that this data is accessible and usable for relevant entities, so it can be effectively integrated into their workflows and support their decision-making processes.
Elaborating on the technological leap from Sharjah-Sat-1, Alkaabi noted that Sharjah-Sat-2 introduces a more advanced imaging capability through hyperspectral imaging, as opposed to the RGB images provided by Sharjah-Sat-1.
It also sees a significant improvement in spatial resolution, approximately five metres ground sampling distance (GSD), compared to around 50 metres for Sharjah-Sat-1, enabling more detailed and practical applications.
"One of the key areas we are building on is the importance of a strong ground segment and operational capability. Sharjah-Sat-1 showed us that the real work begins after launch, which highlighted the need for a well-prepared team and reliable mission control and ground station systems," she said.
"The experience gained – particularly in dealing with real in-orbit challenges – has enabled us to be better prepared for Sharjah-Sat-2," she added.
Nurturing Local Talent in Space Sciences
The mission also plays a key role in developing future talent. The Sharjah-Sat-2 satellite is part of a series of satellites being developed by the hub under an integrated scientific programme.
"In the CubeSat laboratory, students are not only introduced to theoretical concepts, but are actively involved in hands-on tasks," allowing them to gain experience across different mission phases.
Alkaabi said students are encouraged to contribute based on their backgrounds, gaining hands-on experience in a multidisciplinary environment.
She added that such exposure can prepare them for different roles in the space sector, including satellite systems engineering, mission and ground segment operations, data analysis, and payload development.
"The long-term goal is to help develop a generation capable of contributing to – and eventually leading – the design and execution of space missions locally."
