Latest news with #HHSayyidAzzanbinQaisalSaid
Muscat Daily
4 days ago
- Science
- Muscat Daily
Duqm-2 space mission collects critical data despite aborted launch
Duqm – Duqm-2 space mission concluded on Sunday without launching the Kea-1 spacecraft after a technical issue with onboard actuators halted final preparations at the Etlaq Spaceport in Duqm. The mission, part of a series of experimental spaceflight efforts from Duqm, had planned to launch a two-stage guided suborbital experimental vehicle. While the launch did not proceed, mission leaders confirmed collection of critical data and successful execution of several pre-launch operations. The mission supported training in cryogenic fluid handling, launch pad operations, power system setup and spacecraft assembly. Developed by New Zealand's Stellar Kinetics, Kea-1 was equipped with two tethered payloads from research partners in the UK and Taiwan intended for scientific and microgravity experiments. H H Sayyid Azzan bin Qais al Said, Founder and CEO of National Aerospace Services Company (NASCOM) and Etlaq Spaceport, stated that the mission achieved its core objectives, including regulatory coordination, mission planning, ground system design and facility readiness. 'This outcome reflects the precision required in space operations. The decision to delay the launch underscores commitment to safety.' He noted that the spaceport is steadily positioning itself as a regional launch hub, adding that knowledge gained from the Duqm-2 preparations would support the future development of both the spaceport and Stellar Kinetics' launch systems. A Stellar Kinetics spokesperson confirmed that while the actuator issue delayed the Kea-1 launch, the team was able to meet most of the mission's intended milestones. Further launches remain on schedule as Stellar Kinetics and Etlaq continue development of a sustainable, experimental launch ecosystem.
Muscat Daily
02-07-2025
- Business
- Muscat Daily
Etlaq Spaceport in Duqm to start operating by 2027
Muscat – Oman's first spaceport Etlaq is expected to be operational by 2027, according to H H Sayyid Azzan bin Qais al Said, Founder and CEO of National Aerospace Services Company (NASCOM). The announcement comes as Oman consolidates its position in the regional space sector following the successful launch of Duqm-1, the first spacecraft developed under a Middle East-led initiative. The milestone marked a significant step forward in the sultanate's ambitions to establish a national space infrastructure for commercial and scientific purposes. Etlaq Spaceport, being developed in Duqm, is designed to offer end-to-end logistical and technical services for satellite and sub-orbital vehicle launches. Oman's strategic location has been highlighted as a key advantage for attracting global operators. 'The facility will eventually include four launch pads and support a range of missions, from micro to heavy payloads, including reusable systems,' informed H H Sayyid Azzan. 'NASCOM is also developing local human capital through dedicated training programmes, aligned with the company's goal of generating in-country value and fostering national capabilities in space technologies.' Under a programme named Al Takween (Genesis) launched in 2024, the company supports short-turnaround launch operations, enabling testing and qualification of spacecraft within 14 weeks. Recent developments include a second launch pad for experimental flights and a new assembly facility. NASCOM's next mission – Duqm-2 – is being conducted in partnership with New Zealand-based Stellar Kinetics. The mission's sub-orbital KEA-1 vehicle, measuring 12m, will be used to test stage separation and guidance systems. It will carry two international scientific payloads and explore microgravity conditions, contributing to research and technology development. Dr Saud bin Humaid al Shuaili, Director General of Policies and Governance and Head of National Space Programme at Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology, said the spaceport project supports Oman's strategy for space exploration.
