SpaceX launched the United Arab Emirates’ mobile connectivity satellite Thuraya-4 into orbit. This mission marked the first launch of Falcon 9 in 2025.
SpaceXUnited Arab Emirates with a Falcon 9 rocket on January 3, 2025 Thuraya-4 successfully launched its mobile connectivity satellite into space. This launch, carried out from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida, was Falcon 9’s first mission in 2025. Thuraya-4 is designed to provide narrowband connectivity for mobile devices in Europe, Africa, Central Asia and the Middle East.
Thuraya-4 Satellite and Its Features
Thuraya-4 was developed as an all-electric satellite based on Airbus’ Eurostar Neo platform. Equipped with a 12-meter L-band antenna, the satellite provides mobile connection with a resolution of 5,120 x 2,160. This satellite, ordered by Yahsat, is part of Space42, the United Arab Emirates’ artificial intelligence-powered space technologies company. Thuraya-4 will replace older Boeing-made satellites in orbit.
While the satellite was planned to be launched in 2023, this date was postponed due to cost and scheduling problems experienced by Airbus. After a busy launch schedule in 2024, SpaceX made a fast start to the year with the goal of more missions in 2025.
The first stage of the Falcon 9 rocket used in this mission successfully returned to Earth, marking SpaceX’s 341st landing for orbital-class rockets. The company broke a record by making a total of 134 launches in 2024. SpaceX President Gwynne Shotwell stated that they aim for 175-180 launches in 2025.
Ali Al Hashemi, CEO of Space42, said Thuraya-4 aims to provide innovative AI-powered services to global customers. The company focuses on new technologies such as hybrid connectivity and autonomous vehicles. Space42 also aims to expand its services with the order of two new satellites, planned to be launched in 2027 and 2028.