Oman is on track to launch its first satellite – Aman – into space soon after it successfully completed its integration and installation phase with Virgin Orbit’s ‘Launcher One’ spacecraft.
The satellite, which is a part of the ‘Mission Aman’ programme, will be a low-Earth orbital body following deployment. The satellite is expected to be launched from the Newquay Airport in Cornwall, UK – albeit, a date is yet to be announced.
This specialised mission is spearheaded by ETCO, an Omani technology company, and was developed in conjunction with SatRev, a Polish nanosatellite manufacturer; and TUATARA, specialists in advanced AI, data analytics, and cognitive technology solutions.
The launch of Aman will mark an important step in the Sultanate’s space goals, and the technology and innovation pillars outlined under the Oman Vision 2040. Integration of the satellite to Virgin Orbit’s ‘Launcher One’ spacecraft also memorialises a successful (if meticulous) step in the launch process.
As per a release, the technique involves installation and preparation of the launch cranes that secure the lifting of the launch vehicle and integration of the satellite. This was followed by rigorous testing of the separation devices as soon as the satellite is ejected for deployment, and finally, positioning the satellite on its pre-ordained orbital course.
All processes incorporate a precise series of advanced checks for all operating, launching, and tracking, alongside the testing of data receivers.
Abdulaziz Jaafar, the CEO of ETCO, said in a statement to the Oman News Agency that the integration of the satellite represents a milestone in the plan to send the first Omani satellite into space this year, before adding that work is underway to reach the final stage of launching the satellite to the low-Earth orbit.
Grzegorz Zwoliński, the CEO of SatRev, also attested that the merger (integration) went as planned and that all risks were reduced in advance during the joint inspection process (with the integration team) that took place last month.
