Abu Dhabi, UAE — Orbitworks, a UAE-based satellite manufacturing company, has announced the development of Altair, an advanced Earth observation satellite constellation powered by artificial intelligence (AI). Comprising 10 AI-enabled satellites, the constellation is set to begin production in the second half of 2025 at Orbitworks’ Abu Dhabi facility, with launches scheduled for 2026, according to a report by TechInAsia.

AI at the Core of Next-Gen Earth Observation

Each Altair satellite will feature a comprehensive suite of sensors—including optical, infrared, thermal, hyperspectral, and radio frequency (RF) technologies. These tools will enable high-resolution Earth imaging across a broad spectrum of data types, supporting applications in disaster response, maritime surveillance, precision agriculture, environmental monitoring, and national security.

The constellation’s defining feature is its onboard edge computing capability, allowing satellites to process vast amounts of sensor data directly in orbit. This drastically reduces latency and enhances real-time decision-making—delivering faster, more actionable insights compared to traditional satellite systems.

Orbitworks’ lead systems engineer emphasized the transformative nature of this approach: “Each Altair satellite functions as an intelligent node in a global network. By processing data at the edge, we eliminate delays and empower both governments and enterprises to act immediately on critical information.”

Built on Robust Technology

The Altair satellites will be built using Loft Orbital’s Longbow platform, itself based on Airbus’ reliable Arrow satellite bus. Each satellite is designed for operational longevity, with a projected mission lifespan of up to eight years.

This infrastructure enables Orbitworks to deliver powerful and versatile satellites at scale, with the company targeting the capacity to build up to 50 satellites annually. The production capability is part of a larger national vision to transform the UAE into a regional powerhouse for satellite technology and aerospace innovation.

Advancing UAE’s Space Sector Ambitions

The Altair project aligns closely with the UAE’s Vision 2031 for advanced technological development. Since the creation of the UAE Space Agency in 2014, the country has invested over $5.5 billion in its space program, generating more than 1,500 jobs across 57 space-focused organizations.

Orbitworks’ initiative represents a strategic shift in the UAE’s position within the space industry—from being a consumer of foreign-built space technology to becoming a key developer and manufacturer. With regional competition heating up, the UAE is doubling down on innovation, AI integration, and compact, intelligent satellite design.

A Growing Regional and Global Market

Between 2018 and 2023, space program investments across the Middle East surged by 175%, driven by increasing demand for real-time Earth analytics, AI-powered intelligence, and geospatial data. As these needs grow, the global satellite manufacturing and launch market is forecast to expand significantly—reaching $430.8 billion by 2030, up from $278.2 billion in 2025.

With the Altair constellation, Orbitworks is not just meeting this demand—it is helping define the next era of Earth observation. The constellation stands as a testament to the UAE’s commitment to becoming a regional hub for satellite manufacturing and a global leader in space-based AI solutions.