UAE’s First SAR Satellite ‘Etihad-Sat’ Successfully Launched

The UAE has taken a significant step forward in space technology with the successful launch of Etihad-Sat, its latest synthetic aperture radar (SAR) satellite. 

Developed by the Mohammed bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC) in collaboration with South Korea’s Satrec Initiative, the satellite lifted off aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from a California spaceport. The first signal from the satellite was received at 12:04 PM, confirming a smooth deployment. Etihad-Sat marks a milestone in the UAE’s growing space capabilities, complementing the nation’s existing Earth observation fleet. Unlike optical imaging satellites, which rely on clear weather conditions, Etihad-Sat’s SAR technology allows for uninterrupted monitoring, capturing high-resolution images through clouds, fog, and even in complete darkness.

This advancement significantly enhances the UAE’s ability to track environmental changes, monitor urban growth, and respond to natural disasters with real-time, reliable data.

The satellite’s applications are vast, spanning from detecting oil spills and supporting maritime navigation to improving smart agriculture and environmental conservation.