Is Oman close to the secretary’s secret to the growing space launch capacity of Oman? , world News
With its strategic location near the equator and open coastal geography, the Oman is emerging as a major platform for space vehicle launch. The expansion infrastructure of the Sultanate has attracted interest from international aerospace companies by infrastructure and favorable geographical conditions and is now paving the way for Oman to bring themselves into position as a regional and global space launch hub.
Equatorial profit And coastal launch site
Oman’s proximity to the equator provides an important scientific and economic edge, launched close to the equator, requiring low fuel due to the Earth’s rotation aid velocity. In addition, possible launch site increases the coastal access and logical feasibility of Oman for the Indian Ocean and low population density.“Oman’s unique position makes this ideal for multi-arbitrary launch, including equatorial, sun-synchronous, polar, medium economy and geostationary orbits,” said HH Sayyd Azzan Qais AL in a public statement.
Etlaq Spaceport & Duqm-1: Laying Groundwork
The Etlaq Spaceport marked Oman’s formal entry into the regional space race with its first space launch “DuQM-1”, the first of its kind in the Middle East. Located at 18 degree latitude, the site enables diverse orbital access and will play an important role in future missions. Etlaq’s vision includes:
- A second launch pad for experimental missions
- A spacecraft assembly facility
- An Omani Formation Program that supports the experimental launch within 14 weeks of the scheme
- A long -term plan to be completely operational by 2027
The program also emphasizes local talent development in space science and advanced engineering fields.
Government Support and Vision 2040 Alignment
Dr. Saud Hamid Al Shukali, Director General of Policies and Government and head of the National Space Program in the Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology, confirmed the government’s commitment to make Oman a competitive destination for global space investment. “Space launch project supports Oman Vision 2040 by attracting international space companies and strengthening national capabilities in spacecraft design, launch operations and aerospace technology.”
