Space Firm Orbitworks Plans $1B AI-Powered Earth Observation Network

Orbitworks, a satellite manufacturing and space infrastructure firm based in Abu Dhabi, is planning a $1 billion investment over five years to deploy an AI-powered Earth observation network after securing its first contract with a European government.

The company has signed an agreement with France’s national space agency to manufacture and launch satellites, with its first unit scheduled for launch in October, followed by nine more next year. Plans include deploying an additional 40 satellites over the following years, bringing the total constellation to 50.

Orbitworks has also invested around $200 million in a manufacturing facility in Abu Dhabi designed to produce 10 satellites annually, with capacity to scale up to 50.

The company was established through a partnership between Loft Orbital, a space infrastructure provider based in the United States, and Marlan Space, a space technology company based in the UAE and a subsidiary of International Holding Company.

The firm is exploring funding options for its expansion, including potential backing from Abu Dhabi and French government entities.

The planned Altair constellation is designed to monitor deforestation, track climate patterns, and support disaster response by combining satellite data with artificial intelligence.