In a strategic move reflecting its growing space ambitions, the Saudi Space Agency announced it is intensifying its efforts to monitor increasing solar activity, which is expected to peak in 2025. These efforts culminate in the announcement of a plan to launch the first Saudi satellite dedicated to monitoring space weather, a vital project aimed at protecting the Kingdom’s critical infrastructure and enhancing its position as a regional power in the space sector.
Understanding the solar cycle and its expected effects
The Sun is currently entering what is known as Solar Cycle 25, a period of approximately 11 years during which its magnetic activity changes dramatically. As it approaches the peak of this cycle in 2025, the frequency and intensity of space phenomena such as solar flares and coronal mass ejections (CMEs) are increasing. These events release enormous amounts of radiation and charged particles into space, and when they reach Earth, they can cause significant disturbances in our planet's magnetosphere, known as geomagnetic storms.
Historically, severe solar storms have caused significant damage. In 1859, the Carrington Storm disrupted global telegraph networks. In 1989, a less powerful solar storm caused a power outage across the entire Canadian province of Quebec for several hours. In today's digital age, the risks are even greater, as these phenomena threaten satellite communication systems, GPS navigation networks, satellites, power grids, and air navigation.
A Saudi satellite to enhance national readiness
Recognizing these risks, the Saudi satellite project is a proactive step to enhance the Kingdom's capabilities in space weather monitoring. The satellite is scheduled for launch in May 2025 in collaboration with leading international partners such as NASA, and with support from the National Industrial Development and Logistics Program (NIDLP), one of the programs for achieving the Kingdom's Vision 2030.
The satellite will collect accurate and real-time data on solar activity, enabling relevant authorities and researchers to:
- Early prediction: Issuing early warnings before solar storms arrive, giving time to take preventative measures.
- Protecting critical assets: Protecting satellites by putting them into “safe mode”, and securing electricity and communications networks.
- Supporting scientific research: Providing valuable data to Saudi and international scientists to study the relationship between the sun and the earth.
Strategic importance within Vision 2030
The importance of this project extends beyond its technical aspects; it also represents a cornerstone in achieving the goals of Vision 2030. It contributes to the localization of advanced technologies, the development of a national workforce specializing in space science and engineering, and the strengthening of the knowledge-based economy. Furthermore, the collaboration with NASA opens new avenues for the transfer of expertise and knowledge, and solidifies the Kingdom's position as a trusted partner in the international space community.
Investing in space weather monitoring is no longer a scientific luxury, but a strategic necessity to ensure the sustainability and safety of the systems upon which the modern world depends. Through this pioneering project, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia reaffirms its commitment not only to protecting its national interests, but also to contributing effectively to global efforts to address shared space challenges.
