Saudi Arabia has achieved a significant achievement in the space sector by successfully launching the ‘Shams’ satellite on Saturday. According to the Saudi Press Agency, the satellite was sent into space as part of the Artemis-2 mission through the Space Launch System. With this success, Saudi Arabia has become the first Arab country to participate in the mission under the Artemis program, which is seen as a historic achievement in the space sector.

The Artemis-2 mission is the second phase of an international cooperation program being carried out with the aim of accelerating space research and technology development. Through this mission, various countries are jointly collaborating on new technology development, scientific research and space exploration.

The ‘Shams’ satellite will operate in an elliptical orbit extending from an altitude of about 500 kilometers to 70,000 kilometers above the Earth. Such an orbit gives the satellite the ability to cover a wide area around the Earth, which facilitates detailed monitoring of solar activity and radiation.

The data obtained from the satellite is expected to make a significant contribution to space weather research. It will make it easier to study the effects of solar activity—such as its impact on communication systems, satellite operations, and electrical infrastructure.

The launch also reflects Saudi Arabia’s long-term strategy to develop its space sector. The country aims to encourage technological innovation, produce skilled manpower, and expand international partnerships.