Bahrain has successfully launched its first satellite, Al Munther. The satellite marks a significant achievement for the country’s space program. UAE Vice President Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan congratulated King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa on this successful launch.
Al Munther, developed by Bahrain’s National Space Science Agency (NSSA), was launched aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket. The rocket took off from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California. After launch, the satellite reached its designated orbit at 550 km above sea level.
The satellite is equipped with cutting-edge technology. It features a medium-resolution space camera capable of capturing high-quality images of Bahrain and its waters. Furthermore, Al Munther includes an artificial intelligence system. This AI enables real-time analysis of the images, making it the region’s first nanosatellite with such capabilities.
Another key feature of the satellite is its cybersecurity system. This system uses advanced encryption to protect the satellite’s data from unauthorized access. Additionally, Al Munther includes a radio broadcast payload. This feature will transmit Bahrain’s national anthem and a special message from King Hamad.
The UAE also extended its congratulations. The Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC) acknowledged Bahrain’s achievement, praising the NSSA for their success.
In the same week, the UAE launched its own high-precision observational satellite, Etihad-SAT, aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket. This marks the second satellite launch for the UAE in the first quarter of 2025.
Bahrain’s Al Munther satellite is a significant step in advancing the country’s space ambitions. It highlights the nation’s growing commitment to space exploration and technological progress.
