HELSINKI - ICEYE in Helsinki announced it has launched and deployed four synthetic aperture radar (SAR) satellites into orbit, adding to its Earth observation constellation. The satellites, integrated by Exolaunch, were sent into space on January 14 aboard SpaceX's Transporter-12 rideshare mission from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California. All four satellites have established communication and begun early operational routines.
This launch brings the total number of satellites deployed by ICEYE and its customers to 44 since 2018. Plans are underway to launch more than 20 satellites annually starting in 2025.
The new satellites, manufactured at facilities in Finland and the United States, will support ICEYE's commercial services and missions for dedicated customers. Among the payloads is the second satellite for Space42, a UAE-based company focusing on artificial intelligence-driven Earth observation programs.
Related: ICEYE US announces NASA order for SAR data under commercial program
"Through the continuous and reliable deployment of new satellites into the ICEYE constellation, we are reinforcing our leadership position in Earth Observation," said ICEYE CEO and co-founder Rafal Modrzewski. "ICEYE's revolutionary satellites have a groundbreaking combination of capabilities — smaller size and high performance — which ICEYE is uniquely positioned to deliver to customers. Our team is committed to partnering with governments and industries worldwide. With today's announcement, we also celebrate the launch of the second ICEYE satellite for Space42 and look forward to further successful collaboration on their missions and developing the UAE's space capabilities."
Hasan Al Hosani, CEO of Bayanat Smart Solutions, Space42, highlighted the significance of the partnership. "Foresight-2 has furthered the UAE's position as a global leader in satellite-based Earth observation, while enabling us to strengthen our credentials as a multi-orbit satellite operator," he said. "Through the SAR constellation, we continue to drive the development of our local satellite manufacturing capabilities, while boosting nationwide preparedness for emergency response; ensuring we deliver maximum value to our customers in the region and beyond."
