Thuraya 4 Enhances Connectivity Across Africa, Europe, Central Asia, and the Middle East

Thuraya 4 is set to deliver enhanced security, faster data speeds, and broader coverage across Africa, Europe, Central Asia, and the Middle East.

Photo credit: Supplied

Space42, a UAE-based AI-driven SpaceTech firm with a global footprint, has successfully launched its Thuraya 4 (T4) telecommunications satellite into orbit. This launch marks a pivotal moment in Space42’s evolution as a provider of high-quality geospatial data, AI-driven geospatial analytics, non-terrestrial networks (NTN), and secure connectivity solutions.

The satellite was deployed aboard SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida, USA, at 20:26 Eastern Time. After its deployment, Thuraya 4 activated its onboard electrical thrusters for Electrical Orbit Raising (EOR), a process that will take several months until the satellite reaches its operational geostationary orbit at 44° East, approximately 36,000 km above Earth.

Thuraya 4, a next-generation mobile telecommunications system, significantly enhances Space42’s capabilities. As one of the largest MSS communication satellites ever built, it aligns with the company’s strategy to introduce over 15 new products to meet the increasing demand across various sectors, including defense, government, and enterprise. This sixth geostationary (GEO) satellite will provide improved security, faster speeds, and expanded coverage across the targeted regions.

Statements from Leadership

His Excellency Mansoor Al Mansoori, Chairman of Space42, remarked, “The successful launch of Thuraya 4 is a clear indication of our dedication to pushing the boundaries of innovation and contributing to the UAE’s leadership in the global SpaceTech sector. This milestone not only enhances our capabilities to transform the future of connectivity but also supports the UAE’s ambitious National Space Strategy 2030.”

Karim Michel Sabbagh, Managing Director of Space42, added, “The launch of Thuraya 4 is a significant achievement for Space42. It establishes the groundwork for our next-generation mobile satellite solutions, broadening our offerings to partners and customers while fostering new avenues for innovation. This launch solidifies Space42’s leadership in the global SatCom industry.”

Ali Al Hashemi, CEO of Yahsat Space Services, Space42, stated, “The launch of Thuraya 4 is a monumental advancement for Space42, continuing our legacy of disruptive technology, innovation, and connectivity. We take pride in this achievement as we strive to become a global leader in non-terrestrial networks, explore new business segments like direct-to-device and Internet of Things, and diversify our offerings worldwide.”

Alain Fauré, Head of Space Systems at Airbus, expressed, “We are entering a new chapter in our collaboration with Space42: the successful launch of the Thuraya 4 satellite! After its journey from our cleanrooms in France to the launch site in Florida aboard our Airbus Beluga, this latest telecommunications satellite is now poised to enhance the flexibility of Space42’s communications satellite fleet. Utilizing the advanced all-electric Airbus Eurostar Neo platform, the Thuraya 4 launch is a significant milestone that reinforces our long-standing partnership with Space42, which has lasted over a decade.”

Thuraya serves as the satellite mobility division under Space42’s Yahsat Space Services. Powered by the innovative Airbus Eurostar Neo platform, Thuraya 4 is equipped with a 12-meter antenna operating in L-Band and advanced onboard processing capabilities. These features enable exceptional routing flexibility with up to 3,200 channels and dynamic power allocation across multiple spot beams.

The successful launch of Thuraya 4 highlights the UAE’s commitment to advancing its SpaceTech sector on a global scale, aligning with the National Space Strategy 2030.

Tags: SpaceX, Falcon 9, Space42, telecommunications satellite, Thuraya 4

Person

His Excellency Mansoor Al Mansoori, Karim Michel Sabbagh, Ali Al Hashemi, Alain Fauré

Company Names

Space42, Yahsat Space Services, Airbus, SpaceX

Titles

Thuraya 4, Eurostar Neo, National Space Strategy 2030

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