Oman Set to Launch Its First Experimental Scientific Rocket
Historic move positions Oman as a rising player in space technology with the launch of Duqm-1 under its National Space Programme.
Oman is gearing up for a monumental moment in its space journey with the launch of its first experimental scientific rocket, Duqm-1.
This initiative, part of the Ministry of Transport, Communications, and Information Technology’s National Space Programme, is being executed and funded by Etlaq Company, a subsidiary of the National Space Services Company.
The project includes the establishment of a spaceport in Al-Kahl, Wilayat of Duqm, under a usufruct agreement with the ministry. The location’s strategic advantages, such as proximity to the equator and a safe coastline, make it ideal for satellite launches, as noted by Dr. Ali bin Amer Al-Shaidhani, Undersecretary for Communications and Information Technology.
Strategic Goals and Economic Impact
Eng. Said bin Hamoud Al-Maawali, the Minister overseeing the project, emphasized the initiative’s alignment with Oman’s broader goals of localizing space technology, attracting global investment, and diversifying the economy. The spaceport aims to serve commercial, scientific, and research purposes, marking a significant step toward regional and international collaboration in space exploration.
Technical Specs and Launch Details
Duqm-1, a 6.5-meter rocket weighing 123 kilograms when fuelled, will soar to an altitude of 140 kilometers at a speed of 1,530 m/s. The rocket’s flight is expected to last approximately 15 minutes. The inaugural launch, scheduled for next Wednesday, will take place at Duqm (coordinates 18°N, 56°E). For safety reasons, public access will not be permitted.
Future Prospects
The initiative sets the stage for further advancements, with three additional launches planned for 2025. The National Space Services Company, established in 2021 and fully owned by Omanis, is spearheading efforts to address the global demand for satellite launches, particularly in light of the limited number of operational spaceports worldwide.
Oman’s bold leap into the space sector signals a promising future, not only for its economy but also for its role in global space exploration.
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