Loft Orbital Joins Forces with UAE Firm to Revolutionize Satellite Production
By Aria Alamalhodaei | 11:00 PM PDT • August 25, 2024
Big News for Satellite Manufacturing: Loft Orbital and UAE’s Marlan Space Unveil Groundbreaking Partnership
In a major boost for the Middle East’s space sector, Loft Orbital has teamed up with Marlan Space, a UAE-based firm, to establish Orbitworks, a new joint venture set to transform satellite production in the region. Backed by over $100 million from an Emirati royal family-affiliated holding company, Orbitworks will be the UAE’s pioneering commercial satellite manufacturer.
Why This Matters
Orbitworks represents a significant leap for the UAE, which is striving to enhance its space capabilities and create a self-sufficient satellite industry. With Marlan Space holding the majority stake, this venture underscores the UAE’s commitment to advancing its space ambitions. The UAE Space Agency (UAESA) has already made impressive strides, including sending its first astronaut to the ISS in 2019 and placing a probe into Martian orbit two years later.
Loft Orbital’s Role
San Francisco-based Loft Orbital brings its expertise in satellite production and operations to the table. Known for buying satellite buses in bulk and managing payloads, Loft will integrate its modular payload technology into Orbitworks. This flexibility allows them to work with various players in the UAE’s growing space ecosystem, from payload suppliers to cloud providers.
A New Era for Satellite Manufacturing
Orbitworks aims to manufacture up to 50 satellites annually, starting with the hardware for the first ten already in place. Set to operate from a 50,000 square-foot facility in Abu Dhabi, the first satellite is expected to be operational by early 2025. This venture will not only advance local capabilities but also position the UAE as a key player in the global satellite market.
Looking Ahead
Loft Orbital CEO Pierre-Damien Vaujour is enthusiastic about the partnership: “The goal is to scale this initiative on a grand scale, with ambitions that extend both regionally and internationally.” This collaboration marks a pivotal moment in the UAE’s space industry, combining local innovation with Loft’s established expertise to drive forward satellite manufacturing and operations.
Key Takeaways:
- New Joint Venture: Orbitworks, a partnership between Loft Orbital and Marlan Space, aims to revolutionize satellite production in the UAE.
- Major Investment: The venture is supported by over $100 million from an Emirati royal family-affiliated company.
- Ambitious Goals: Orbitworks plans to produce up to 50 satellites per year, with the first expected to be operational by early 2025.
- Global Impact: This initiative is set to strengthen the UAE’s position in the global space industry, combining local investment with Loft Orbital’s technological expertise.
