The Kingdom of Bahrain Launches Its First Locally Made and Developed Satellite

Today, Saturday, the Kingdom of Bahrain successfully launched its first entirely Bahraini-designed and developed satellite. The satellite, named “Al-Munther,” reached its orbit aboard the “Falcon 9” rocket as part of the “SpaceX Transporter-13” mission, launched from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California, USA.

“Al-Munther” is the first Bahraini satellite developed entirely within the kingdom and the first of its kind in the region. It utilizes artificial intelligence technologies to analyze satellite imagery. The launch aims to establish satellite technologies and enhance national capabilities in the space sector.

Bahrain’s National Security Advisor, Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa, expressed his pride and joy in this achievement, extending congratulations to his country’s King, Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa.

He emphasized that the space sector is one of the most prominent and fastest-growing sectors of the future economy. He also noted that Bahrain looks forward to further space projects that will contribute to enhancing its international standing.

The initial operational phase and in-orbit testing of the satellite systems are crucial steps. This phase involves the transmission of vital signals confirming the functionality of the satellite’s internal systems, along with a series of subsystem tests to ensure efficient communication, data processing, accurate control, and orientation determination.

This process ensures full operational readiness before transitioning to regular operations, which include capturing satellite images, transmitting them to the ground station, and testing subsidiary payloads that incorporate artificial intelligence algorithms and space cybersecurity technologies.