The UAE has taken another step towards its space goals. The country’s latest satellite Sirb-1 has cleared a major design review. Therefore, it is now ready for manufacturing and testing. Reportedly, it is part of the country’s National Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) program. According to the latest news, the UAE is planning to launch it in 2028.
As per the reports, Sirb-1 is different from regular imaging satellites. This satellite uses radar signals to capture images of the Earth during day and night. It even keeps doing its task irrespective of clouds, dust, or haze. This will make it useful for tracking changes on the ground and keeping an eye on the environment.
The project is developed by FADA, the space unit of EDGE, along with the Technology Innovation Institute (TII), Orbitworks and other partners. The satellite's radar system will be built and tested in the UAE before its launch. It will help the country collect data for farming, environmental checks, sea monitoring and disaster response.
The project will also give local companies a chance to gain more experience in building advanced satellites. This could reduce the country's need to depend on foreign companies for space technology.
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The main goal of the project is to provide the UAE with a better control over its satellite data. The radar images will help the country monitor land, and track environmental changes. Most importantly, the UAE will be able to respond to natural disasters more quickly.
Moreover, the project will also help local companies to develop their own technologies and designs. Foreign partners will play a role by sharing their knowledge and helping local engineers learn new skills. However, the UAE may still need other countries and international companies to launch its satellites into space.
The launch provider for Sirb-1 has not yet been announced. If everything goes as planned, the 2028 launch could mark another big step for the country's space industry.