Oman is set to make significant strides in space exploration with its Etlaq Spaceport in Al Duqm planning five test launches in 2025. This initiative positions Oman as a key player in the global space industry and marks a historic milestone for the Middle East and North Africa region.
The announcement was made during the Etlaq Launch Conference 2025, highlighting Oman’s commitment to advancing its space capabilities. These test missions will focus on critical technological demonstrations, including controlled ascent and descent, precision landing systems, stage separation, and fuel efficiency. Such advancements are essential for developing reusable rocket technology and ensuring the sustainability of space travel.
Central to these efforts is the Genesis Program, launched in 2024, aiming to establish Oman’s national space launch heritage. The program began with the successful Duqm-1 mission, serving as a proof of concept for the National Aerospace Services Company (NASCOM). The Genesis Program plans to host multiple launches from 2025 to 2027, collaborating with various companies operating suborbital and experimental launch vehicles. This initiative lays the foundation for full-scale orbital launch operations by 2027, transitioning Oman into a spacefaring nation.
Etlaq Spaceport’s strategic location in Wilayat Al Duqm offers several advantages for space launches. Its coastal position provides a secure controlled exclusion zone, minimizing risks and optimizing launch efficiency. Additionally, the area’s low air traffic and proximity to the equator allow for cost-effective and time-efficient launches into various orbits. These geographical benefits make Etlaq an attractive option for global launch providers seeking a reliable and efficient launch site.
International collaborations play a vital role in Etlaq’s mission. The spaceport is working with launch partners from Kuwait, the United Kingdom, and New Zealand to execute the planned test missions. These partnerships enhance Oman’s position in the global space community and foster international cooperation in space exploration. Notably, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between the Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology (MTCIT) and NASCOM, granting NASCOM the status of a “Qualified Entity” for building and operating spaceports. This agreement aims to develop Oman’s private sector capabilities, attract foreign investments, and facilitate the transfer and localization of advanced technologies.
Safety and sustainability are at the forefront of Etlaq’s operations. All planned launches will be conducted under strict safety protocols and environmental considerations. The spaceport’s location ensures a secure environment for launch activities, adhering to rigorous risk assessments to maintain operational integrity without compromising mission success.
The successful launch of Duqm-1 in December 2024 marked a significant milestone for Oman. The 6.5-meter-long rocket, weighing 123 kg with fuel, reached an altitude of 140 km above sea level at a speed of 1,530 m/s, with a flight duration of approximately 15 minutes. This achievement demonstrated Oman’s growing capabilities in space technology and set the stage for future missions.
Looking ahead, Etlaq Spaceport’s plans for 2025 signify more than technical achievements; they represent Oman’s broader ambitions in economic and scientific development. By fostering a conducive environment for frequent and efficient launches, supported by international collaborations, Oman is positioning its space industry as a lasting and influential player on the world stage.
As anticipation builds for the upcoming test launches, Oman’s journey into space exploration reflects a long-term vision for innovation, economic diversification, and global cooperation. The Etlaq Spaceport stands as a testament to what can be achieved through strategic planning, investment in technology, and a commitment to advancing human knowledge beyond our planet.
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