On January 3, 2025, SpaceX successfully launched the mobile connectivity satellite Thuraya-4 on behalf of Space42, an innovative company from the United Arab Emirates. This launch, carried out from the Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, marks the beginning of a new era for voice and data connectivity in various regions such as Europe, Africa, Central Asia, and the Middle East. With cutting-edge technology integrated into the satellite, Thuraya-4 aims to transform mobile communication services while showcasing the UAE’s commitment to strengthening its space infrastructure.
On January 3, 2025, SpaceX launched the mobile connectivity satellite Thuraya-4 from the Cape Canaveral Space Station in Florida. This launch marks the beginning of orbital missions for the year 2025. Built on the Airbus Eurostar Neo platform, this all-electric satellite is equipped with a 12-meter L-band antenna, enabling tight connectivity for mobile devices across Europe, Africa, Central Asia, and the Middle East.
The satellite was launched for Space42, a company recently formed by the merger of Yahsat and Bayanat, aimed at enhancing communication services. Originally scheduled for 2023, the launch was delayed due to scheduling issues and costs faced by Airbus in its space operations.
With this launch, SpaceX continues to dominate the market, with an ambitious goal of 175-180 launches for 2025, after achieving a total of 134 launches in 2024.
spacex launches mobile connectivity satellite thuraya-4
On January 3, 2025, SpaceX made history by successfully placing the mobile connectivity satellite Thuraya-4 into orbit for the UAE-based Space42. This launch marked the start of orbital activities for SpaceX in 2025, representing a major advancement in mobile communications. The Falcon 9 rocket launched without incident from the Cape Canaveral Space Station, propelling the satellite into a geostationary transfer orbit.
the innovative features of thuraya-4
Designed based on the Airbus Eurostar Neo platform, the Thuraya-4 satellite features a 12-meter L-band antenna. This advanced technology enables widespread broadband connectivity for mobile devices across extensive areas, including Europe, Africa, Central Asia, and the Middle East. The primary objective of this satellite is to replace two older Boeing satellites, thus providing a significant upgrade to communication services for an increasingly connected audience.
the impact of the project on the future of communications
With the launch of Thuraya-4, Space42, following its merger with Bayanat, expressed its ambition to develop services based on artificial intelligence for its clients worldwide. This project is an important step toward integrating hybrid connectivity and geospatial services, particularly for emerging markets such as autonomous vehicles. SpaceX plans to intensify its efforts with other scheduled satellite missions in the coming years, thereby demonstrating its commitment to innovation in the space sector.
