Oman to launch first experimental scientific rocket on Wednesday

The Sultanate of Oman is set to launch its first experimental scientific rocket, ‘Duqm-1’, on Wednesday, December 4, marking a significant milestone in the country’s space ambitions

 

The launch will be supervised by the Ministry of Transport, Communications, and Information Technology, through the National Space Program, in collaboration with strategic sector partners. The project will be implemented and invested by Etlaq Company, a subsidiary of the National Space Services Company.

 

 

This project comes under a usufruct agreement between Etlaq Company and the Ministry, which has provided land in the Al-Kahl area of the Wilayat of Duqm, located in the Al Wusta Governorate. The site is designated for the establishment of a space port for launching space rockets.

H.E. Eng. Said bin Hamoud Al Maawali, Minister of Transport, Communications, and Information Technology, stated that the launch of ‘Duqm-1’ is part of the Ministry’s broader strategic initiatives to advance the space sector. These initiatives are designed to leverage Oman’s geographic advantages, localize space sciences and technologies, attract investments, and foster private sector partnerships to support economic diversification and job creation in the space industry.

 

 

H.E. Dr. Ali bin Amer Al Shaidhani, Undersecretary of the Ministry for Communications and Information Technology, highlighted Oman’s strategic geographical position near the equator and Tropic of Cancer, which offers significant cost and time advantages for launching space objects into various orbits. Additionally, Oman’s coastal strip and the Duqm free economic zone provide an ideal location for space activities, making the project attractive for international investment.

The ‘Duqm-1’ experimental launch is set to take place next Wednesday from the launch pad in southern Duqm. The rocket, measuring 6.5 meters in length and weighing 80 kg empty (123 kg with fuel), will travel to a height of 140 km above sea level at a speed of 1,530 m/s, with a flight duration of approximately 15 minutes. Due to security protocols, this initial launch will not be open to the public.

Looking ahead, Oman plans three additional launches in 2025, with specific dates to be determined. The National Space Services Company, which was established in 2021, is fully Omani and dedicated to investing in and developing the country’s space sector.