MUSCAT: A masterplan of the Etlaq spaceport – a world-class launch facility planned for development at Duqm in the Sultanate of Oman – will be unveiled for the first time at the Middle East Space Conference (MESC 2024), which takes place in Muscat during January 8 – 10, 2024.
Organised by the Ministry of Transport, Communications, and Information Technology in partnership with Euroconsult, a leading space sector consulting firm, MESC 2024 aims to position Oman as the premier gateway for space opportunities in the region.
Omani space startup National Aerospace Services Company (NASCOM), which is spearheading the development of the country’s first spaceport venture, says the upcoming forum will serve to showcase its ambitions to the global space industry, with the ultimate goal to herald Oman’s debut into the half-trillion dollar global space economy.
“MESC 2024 is a golden opportunity for NASCOM,” said Issam al Zadjali, Vice-Chairman - NASCOM. “Our goal is to generate interest, attract investments, and foster collaborations with a diverse array of stakeholders, including investors, service providers, and potential customers. The conference provides a strategic platform to highlight the Etlaq spaceport's unique features and technological advancements.”
Just last month, the Omani firm selected UK Launch Services Ltd (UK LSL), a leading London-based provider of spaceflight solutions, to design the master-plan for the Etlaq spaceport. Elements of this groundbreaking initiative will be presented to a global audience of space industry stakeholders at MESC 2024, says NASCOM.
“As the Official Sponsor of MESC 2024, NASCOM has a unique opportunity to showcase the achievements of the Etlaq spaceport project on a global stage. We'll be unveiling the master plan, engaging with space industry stakeholders, and reinforcing Oman's commitment to innovation in space exploration,” Al Zadjali noted.
According to the official, a digital model to be displayed at NASCOM’s booth will provide a visual representation of the “scale and ambition of the Etlaq project”. A detailed design due to be unveiled the conference will also feature key elements of the spaceport, including launch-pads, a vehicle assembly building, control center, fueling infrastructure, safety systems, and a visitor center.
As part of the conference deliberations, NASCOM Chairman HH Azzan Kais al Said is also scheduled to share insights on the ‘Space Sector Ecosystem in the Region’ during a panel discussion.
Significantly, NASCOM’s presence at the upcoming space conference is also an opportunity for the Omani company to invite international players to be part of Oman’s space industry growth aspirations.
“Our aim is to engage with a diverse audience, including investors, service providers, potential customers, government representatives, space industry professionals, academics, researchers, and media. We want to attract investments, secure partnerships, and establish relationships with potential users of the Etlaq spaceport,” said the Vice-Chairman.
Other aspects of the spaceport project are being advanced as well, according to the official. “We are actively progressing various aspects, including regulatory compliance, financial planning, technological integration, community engagement, environmental considerations, and exploration of collaborations. The goal is to ensure a holistic approach to the project's development.”
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