The UAE Space Agency funded a 3U CubeSat (MeznSat) to detect greenhouse gas (GHG) concentrations. The project aims to provide the UAE space industry with well-trained graduates through hands-on experience, while also opening opportunities for advanced space-oriented research relevant to the UAE.

Prerequisites:

• Access to EO data

• Capability to process, integrate and analyse EO data

• Satellite Manufacturing capabilities

• Ground segment capabilities

• Secure necessary orbital slots and frequency bands internationally for satellite operations

• Partner launch broker / rideshare slot

Cost:

• Ballpark: USD 50k–3M per mission

A simple CubeSat (typically designed for educational purposes) could be built and launched for as low as a few dozen thousand dollars, up to above one hundred thousand USD.

A more sophisticated CubeSat, packed with cutting-edge tech for intricate research or commercial purposes, could cost up to a few million USD (can vary substantially based on its complexity)

• Includes: satellite payload and bus procurement or in-house design, assembly/integration/verification (AIV) and testing, licensing and frequency allocation, launch services and insurance, ground station support, training and capacity building

Timeframe:

• Overall: 24–48 mo

• Phase: requirements definition & program setup (6–12 mo), design & procurement (6–12 mo), assembly, integration & testing (9–18 mo), launch & early operations (3–6 mo)

Pros:

• Upskilling - Fosters education and public engagement

• Enables Exploratory Research - By providing an opportunity to venture into undeveloped segments of the value chain

• Cost Effectiveness - Improves allocation of financial resources, maximizing impact while minimizing waste

Considerations:

• Limited Duration - CubeSats have a limited lifespan and capability

• Cost and Complexity - Need to consider launching costs and ways if to be sent to orbit, along with related regulatory processes

• Reliability - CubeSats are often less reliable than bigger satellites