Türkiye’s first homegrown communications satellite advances toward orbit
Türkiye's first homegrown communications satellite, Türksat 6A, was sent into space with SpaceX's Falcon 9 rocket from the Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, Florida, U.S., July 8, 2024. (AA Photo)
Türkiye’s first homegrown communications satellite, Turksat 6A, has successfully completed the third ignition process of its space journey toward its stable orbit.
Transportation and Infrastructure Minister Abdulkadir Uraloglu announced the news on Sunday, stating: “Today, we successfully completed the 3rd ignition process, which lasted 7 minutes. TURKSAT 6A continues its historic journey and progresses towards its orbit.”
The fourth ignition process in Turksat 6A’s orbital journey is scheduled for Tuesday, according to Industry and Technology Minister Mehmet Fatih Kacir.
Milestone achievement
Launched last week, Turksat 6A is the result of 10 years of dedicated work, boosting Türkiye’s active satellite count to nine.
After passing all necessary tests, Turksat 6A was launched into space by Space X’s Falcon 9 rocket last Monday.
Pioneering efforts by Turkish engineers
With the successful production of Turksat 6A, Türkiye joins the ranks of a select few countries capable of producing communication satellites.
This accomplishment not only marks a significant technological milestone but also positions Türkiye to potentially become a satellite exporter.
Historical context of Turksat satellites
- 1996: Turksat 1C, successor of the first communications satellite Turksat 1B
- 2001: Turksat 2A
- 2008: Turksat 3A
- 2014: Turksat 4A
- 2015: Turksat 4B
- 2021: Turksat 5A and 5B
