H.H. Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah and President of the University of Sharjah, has witnessed the successful launch of the “SharjahSat-2” cube satellite via live broadcast from the Sharjah Space and Astronomy Hub headquarters.
The satellite was launched aboard a Falcon 9 rocket operated by SpaceX from Vandenberg Air Base in California, United States, marking another step forward in the UAE’s growing space programme.
Following the launch, Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed extended his congratulations to Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, and the people of the UAE, describing the mission as a significant achievement for the nation. He highlighted that SharjahSat-2 represents a new milestone in strengthening the emirate’s position in space science and advanced technology, while supporting scientific research and empowering Emirati youth to actively shape the future.
He noted that the satellite is the second in a series of cube satellites developed by the Sharjah Space and Astronomy Hub with the support of Emirati engineers, reflecting the emirate’s continued commitment to scientific and technological advancement. The project also enhances the capabilities of students and researchers in satellite design and operations, contributing to the development of a skilled generation equipped with innovation and knowledge to keep pace with global developments in the space sector.
Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed emphasised that the achievement is the result of collaboration between academic and research institutions across the UAE, underlining the country’s commitment to strengthening its regional and international presence in space exploration. He added that future phases will include more innovative projects aimed at supporting sustainable development and expanding opportunities for young talent.
Professor Hamid Majoul Al Nuaimi, advisor to the university president and director of the Sharjah Space and Astronomy Hub, said the satellite forms part of an integrated scientific programme designed to provide students and researchers with hands-on experience in designing, developing, operating, and analysing satellites. He described the project as the culmination of years of scientific and engineering work carried out in collaboration with government entities in Sharjah, reflecting strong institutional cooperation.
Al Nuaimi added that SharjahSat-2 will deliver high-quality data and imagery to support a range of applications, including environmental studies, urban planning, monitoring land changes, and advancing space science research.
Engineer Amal Al Hammadi outlined the satellite’s technical capabilities, explaining that it has been deployed into low Earth orbit at an altitude of approximately 500 kilometres, enabling it to efficiently perform Earth observation and scientific missions. She noted that the satellite will undergo a three-month pilot phase to test its systems before entering full operational mode, during which it will capture periodic images of Sharjah and the wider UAE for analysis.
The project includes five key subsystems typical of cube satellites: a power system using solar panels and batteries, a communications system for data transmission, a control and guidance system for stability and navigation, a data processing unit for managing information, and an external structure to protect and support onboard components.
After witnessing the launch, Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed met with the Emirati engineering team behind the project, congratulating them on their achievement and expressing appreciation to supporting government entities, including the Sharjah Electricity, Water and Gas Authority, the Department of Planning and Survey, and Sharjah Municipality.
SharjahSat-2 is expected to provide high-resolution spectral images and critical data to support strategic planning and research initiatives, particularly in areas such as urban development, environmental monitoring, desertification tracking, and risk management, further reinforcing Sharjah’s role in advancing space science and innovation.
Add Comment