DubaiSat-2 satellite is fully operational

The DubaiSat-2 satellite is now in orbit and can provide high-resolution images like this of the Palm in Dubai. Courtesy EIAST

DUBAI // The DubaiSat-2 satellite is fully operational, the Emirates Institution for Advanced Science and Technology has revealed.

“DubaiSat-2 now being fully operational signals the start of our mission to provide useful and timely data to our customers from the government and private sectors, domestically and internationally and to benefit the nation,” said Yousuf Al Shaibani, director general of the institute (EIAST).

“The successful conclusion of the commissioning and in orbit operation of DubaiSat-2, which is the final phase of the project, has reaffirmed the UAE’s leading position on the regional aerospace map. The calibration and validation activities were conducted to ensure that the images will be useful to our customers and that they are of the highest quality which is crucial for the success of the mission. ”

The project is part of plans by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai, to make the UAE a satellite design and manufacturing hub for the region, said Mr Al Shaibani.

The satellite underwent a launch and early operations phase last November that required strict testing to verify how its electronic equipment functioned in a harsh space environment.

The subsequent phase after the satellite is in stable operation mode was to calibrate the telescope and sensors, according to a statement from EIAST. These tests are the final steps before a satellite is declared fully operational and its data quality is deemed accurate.

The satellite also passed tests conducted by the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency recently in collaboration with EIAST on the satellite’s propulsion system to ensure its safety and readiness.

The DubaiSat-2 was launched to provide high-resolution images and is capable of taking multiple images of the same area.

The images will be utilised for environmental projects, urban planning and infrastructure development and to provide specialised reports.

EIAST was established by the Dubai Government in 2006 to promote advanced research and technology innovation in the UAE and enhance scientific skills among UAE nationals.