Bayanat, a prominent provider of AI-driven geospatial solutions and a subsidiary of G42, has affirmed that the deployment of the Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) satellite, known as "Foresight-1", marks a substantial milestone that underscores the UAE's preeminent status in the space industry, being the inaugural satellite of the UAE's Earth Observation Space Programme.
Hasan Al Hosani, the Managing Director of Bayanat, conveyed to the Emirates News Agency (WAM) that Foresight-1 elevates the UAE to the esteemed ranks of the 20 nations worldwide that manage SAR space assets, thereby fortifying its stance in the space domain and bolstering its expanding competencies in this arena. He highlighted that the strategic blueprint devised by Bayanat and Al Yah Satellite Communications Company (Yahsat) hinges on the imminent deployment of a network of satellites equipped with SAR technology. He elucidated that since the inception of the Earth Observation Space Programme in 2023, both entities have been executing the strategic agenda for the Earth Observation System, commencing with the Foresight-1 satellite. He further noted, "Subsequent to the triumphant deployment of the Foresight-1 satellite, we are now equipped to manage space assets poised to traverse the Middle East region repeatedly and with unprecedented speed."
He emphasized that the Foresight-1 satellite is distinguished by its provision of uninterrupted, high-definition surveillance solutions, leveraging SAR technology, an active sensing mechanism that illuminates the Earth's surface and gauges the reflected signal to yield high-resolution imagery. In contrast to conventional optical imaging satellites, SAR satellites can capture images irrespective of daylight, nighttime, or weather conditions. He asserted that this technology will augment the caliber of geospatial solutions and services proffered by Bayanat and Yahsat, alongside enhancing capacities in disaster management, marine surveillance, and intelligent mobility applications. He also mentioned that Emirati nationals accounted for over 30 percent of the Earth Observation Space Programme, underscoring the dedication to nurturing highly skilled national talent in a critical sector.
The anticipated consolidation of Bayanat and Yahsat is slated to finalize before the year's end, contingent upon securing final endorsements from regulatory bodies in the UAE and globally. He noted that the merger is instrumental in establishing "Space42" as a premier Emirati entity in the space sector with an international presence, bolstering the nation's endeavors to fulfill the directives of the National Space Strategy 2030. Al Hosani reiterated that Space42 will persist on this trajectory to attain the objectives of the National Space Strategy 2030, and support the nation's initiatives to advance its space capabilities, safeguard national security, foster innovation, promote international collaboration, stimulate economic expansion, and elevate urban development through space technology.
