Abu Dhabi: Bayanat, an AI-powered geospatial solutions provider and a subsidiary of G42 has confirmed that the recent launch of the ‘Foresight-1’ Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) satellite marks a significant milestone for the UAE, positioning it among the top 20 countries operating SAR satellites. This launch is a key achievement in the UAE’s Earth Observation Space Programme.
Hasan Al Hosani, Managing Director of Bayanat, emphasized that ‘Foresight-1’ strengthens the UAE’s standing in the global space sector. He noted that the satellite’s deployment is a critical step in the strategic roadmap developed by Bayanat and Al Yah Satellite Communications Company (Yahsat), which plans to deploy a constellation of SAR-equipped satellites shortly.
Since the Earth Observation Space Programme’s inception in 2023, both companies have diligently executed their strategic plan, with ‘Foresight-1’ as the initial satellite launch. Al Hosani highlighted that the satellite allows for continuous and high-resolution monitoring over the Middle East, providing unprecedented capabilities in record time.
The ‘Foresight-1’ satellite offers advanced SAR technology, an active sensing system that can capture high-resolution images of the Earth’s surface regardless of time, weather, or light conditions. This technology significantly enhances the geospatial solutions provided by Bayanat and Yahsat, particularly in disaster management, marine monitoring, and smart mobility applications.
Emirati involvement in the Earth Observation Space Programme is substantial, with more than 30% of the team composed of Emirati citizens, demonstrating a strong commitment to developing national talent in this vital sector.
Al Hosani also discussed the anticipated merger between Bayanat and Yahsat, expected to be finalized by the end of the year, pending regulatory approvals. This merger will establish “Space42,” an Emirati leader in the global space industry, supporting the National Space Strategy 2030. Space42 will continue to advance the UAE’s space capabilities, contributing to national security, innovation, international cooperation, economic growth, and urban development through space technology.
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