Oman to Launch AI-Equipped High-Resolution Satellite in 2026

The Sultanate of Oman has announced a major leap in its space technology ambitions with the launch of an AI-powered Earth observation satellite scheduled for the first half of 2026. Represented by Oman Lens, the initiative aims to significantly upgrade the region’s capabilities in remote sensing, urban planning, and environmental monitoring.

Equipped with advanced imaging systems, the satellite will provide panchromatic resolution of 50 cm, along with multi-spectral imaging (RGB and NIR), enabling detailed and diverse views of Earth’s surface. But what truly sets this mission apart is the onboard artificial intelligence platform, capable of executing over 400 trillion operations per second, allowing for near real-time data processing and analysis directly from orbit.

The satellite's mission will support a wide range of applications, including flood prediction, urban street planning, and vegetation mapping, helping to identify both beneficial and harmful plant growth. This dual-purpose technology serves both commercial and governmental needs, and is aimed at strengthening Oman’s position in the global space and geospatial sectors.

The announcement was made during a high-profile signing ceremony where Oman Lens signed cooperation agreements with several strategic partners. These include Oman Chromite Company (OCC), Phoenix Space and Technology Company, and authorized resellers such as Mustafa Sultan Enterprises, GIS HUB, and Bedrock Mineral Resources Consulting Company (BMRC).

This launch builds on the success of OL1, Oman Lens’s previous satellite with a one-metre imaging capability. With the upcoming satellite, Oman Lens plans to reshape the future of Earth observation, merging AI-driven insights with high-resolution satellite imagery for more effective and efficient monitoring of the planet.

As global interest in AI-integrated space systems grows, Oman’s upcoming satellite places the Sultanate at the forefront of Middle East space innovation, demonstrating a strong commitment to leveraging emerging technologies for national development and sustainability.