A new UAE-based space company, Orbitworks, aims to revolutionize the region’s space industry by producing 50 low earth orbit (LEO) satellites annually. Orbitworks, a joint venture between Marlan Space and US-based Loft Orbital, is set to become the first private space infrastructure company in the Middle East, marking a significant milestone in the UAE’s growing space sector.
Strategic Partnership with Loft Orbital
Backed by a $100 million investment from Abu Dhabi-listed International Holding Company, Orbitworks will collaborate closely with Loft Orbital to expedite the delivery of payloads to orbit. The company’s goal is to fly any payload to orbit in the shortest time possible, leveraging advanced hardware, software, and industrial technologies. The joint venture has already secured components for its first 10 satellites, with the inaugural launch slated for the first quarter of 2026.
Facility Development and Satellite Production
Orbitworks plans to develop a facility equipped to integrate and test its satellites, with assembly, integration, and testing of the first satellite platform expected to be completed by early 2025. While the location of this state-of-the-art facility has not yet been disclosed, the company is expected to utilize cutting-edge technologies to achieve its ambitious production targets.
Boosting Private Sector Participation in UAE Space Industry
This new venture aligns with the UAE’s broader strategy to enhance private sector involvement in its space industry. As Mohammad Al Ghafri, Assistant Director General of the Aerospace Engineering Sector at Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre, stated, “It is too expensive for governments to do it on their own. Privatizing is always better.” His comments, made during a panel at the Dubai Fintech Summit, underscore the shift toward privatization in the UAE’s space endeavors.
“Space Means Business” Campaign
Last year, the UAE Space Agency launched the “Space Means Business” campaign to promote opportunities for Emirati and international companies in the Emirates Mission to the Asteroid Belt. This mission, which involves a tour and landing on multiple asteroids between Mars and Jupiter, reflects the UAE’s ambitions in the space sector.
The Future of the Middle East Space Industry
According to a white paper titled “Beyond the Stars: Middle East’s Space Ecosystem on the Move,” the value of the Middle East space sector is expected to reach $75 billion by 2032. With companies like Orbitworks leading the way, the region is poised to become a significant player in the global space industry.
Source: https://www.agbi.com/tech/2024/08/new-uae-space-company-to-develop-50-satellites-per-year/
