Developing a Saudi satellite: Project Fortress to protect infrastructure
In a move reflecting the rapid development of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in the fields of technology and innovation, Umm Al-Qura University has achieved a pioneering research milestone in space science. This achievement stems from a strategic scientific collaboration with the Saudi Space Agency, culminating in the development of Saudi satellite named “Hisn.” This distinguished project is part of the “Sari” competition organized by the agency, highlighting the growing capabilities of young Saudi talent in the space sector and its diverse applications.
The Kingdom's journey towards space leadership and technology development
This achievement was not a sudden occurrence, but rather a natural extension of the radical transformations the Kingdom is undergoing within the framework of Vision 2030, which has established the space sector as a cornerstone for economic diversification and fostering innovation. Since the establishment of the Saudi Space Agency, the Kingdom has strived to solidify its international standing in this vital field, from launching specialized satellites to sending Saudi astronauts to the International Space Station to conduct precise scientific experiments. This recent historical context reflects a serious governmental commitment to localizing knowledge and creating a fertile environment for universities and academic institutions to contribute to the advancement of space research and development.
Project “Fortress”: A Saudi satellite with proactive capabilities
The project is the fruit of the tireless efforts of the “Horizon” team, comprised of two outstanding female students from Umm Al-Qura University: Razan Al-Lihyani and Nouf Al-Zahrani. The design of a Saudi satellite like “Hisn” aims to perform a crucial scientific mission: monitoring minute changes in the Earth’s magnetic field. The importance of this monitoring lies in providing advanced research support that contributes to protecting vital sectors and infrastructure from the potential negative impacts of magnetic fluctuations and solar storms, which could directly affect communication and power networks.
The strategic impact of space data at the local and international levels
The team explained that signals associated with magnetic variations can affect several vital sectors, necessitating the development of proactive solutions based on space data analysis. Locally, this innovation contributes to securing the Kingdom's technological infrastructure and protecting electricity and telecommunications networks from sudden outages. Regionally and internationally, providing accurate data on the magnetic field enhances global efforts to understand space weather and offers a scientific reference that other countries can utilize to protect their strategic assets, highlighting the Kingdom's role as an active and influential partner in the international scientific community.
Empowering national talents and supporting scientific research
The team indicated that the project, based on the requirements of the “Sari” competition, is not limited to the applied and technical aspects alone, but clearly aims to support the advancement of scientific research in the field of space within the Kingdom. This approach contributes to strengthening the presence of Saudi researchers in this vital field, especially given the limited number of specialized studies in this specific area. This innovation is an extension of the efforts of Umm Al-Qura University and the Saudi Space Agency to empower national talent and encourage students to contribute to high-quality projects that serve national development and keep pace with the Kingdom's future directions in the space sector and advanced technologies.
