Dubai Airshow is part of the Informa Markets Division of Informa PLC
This site is operated by a business or businesses owned by Informa PLC and all copyright resides with them. Informa PLC's registered office is 5 Howick Place, London SW1P 1WG. Registered in England and Wales. Number 8860726.
Blog
Private companies are helping develop parts for the country's 2028 asteroid belt mission
23 September 2025
The MBR Explorer by the UAE Space Agency will study seven rocks in the main asteroid belt. Photo: UAE Space Agency
Source: MarketsandMarkets
The global space industry is experiencing a significant transformation, fueled by innovative technologies and strategic ambitions from emerging startups. Key areas driving this evolution include hypersonic systems, AI-powered satellite operations, and the development of lunar and planetary infrastructure. These advancements are redefining speed, enhancing satellite autonomy, and laying the foundation for a multiplanetary future. Together, they signify a move toward a smarter, more agile, and expansive space sector. With startups securing increasing funding for their groundbreaking initiatives, the industry is well positioned to shape the future of space exploration and commerce.
Events like the Dubai Airshow in November 2025 will serve as a vital platform for startups and investors to network and collaborate.
Hypersonic spaceplanes are at the forefront of aerospace technology, offering a new generation of reusable and rapid-response solutions for satellite launches. These innovative vehicles are a more efficient alternative to traditional expendable launch systems, particularly for deploying small and micro payloads. Key players like Hypersonix, ISRO, Stratolaunch, Radian Aerospace, and CASIC are actively developing these technologies, which also have significant applications in hypersonic missile systems.
In a dynamic geopolitical landscape, countries like Turkey, Iran, and Israel are making significant advancements in hypersonic missile technology, which will influence both commercial space access and defense strategies, paving the way for groundbreaking developments in aerospace.
Reusable launch vehicles, powered by air-breathing and other hypersonic propulsion systems, will enable flexible, fleet-based launch operations with minimal refurbishment needs. LEO-based small-satellite constellation missions will benefit immensely from this technological leap.
While these vehicles may not entirely replace traditional vertical launch methods, they will add significant value to the evolving spaceport-based launch service models, playing a crucial role in supporting sustainable satellite operations.
Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming satellite operations and is poised to revolutionize space missions by streamlining processes both, in-orbit and at ground stations. Key applications include mission planning and optimization, predictive health monitoring, onboard image processing, collision avoidance, debris tracking, and automated scheduling for dynamic targeting using Earth Observation (EO) constellations.
Leading low Earth orbit (LEO) connectivity megaconstellations such as Starlink, OneWeb, and Kuiper Systems are leveraging AI to enhance performance through AI-driven beam optimization based on demand prediction, traffic management to reduce latency and increase throughput, and predictive maintenance to minimize outages. Edge-AI in user terminals for adaptive pointing is another key example of this technology's impact.
Moreover, AI supports sustainable space activities by improving collision avoidance, debris mitigation, energy efficiency, and propellant management via intelligent maneuver planning. Predictive analytics enable proactive equipment maintenance, extending satellite lifespans and reducing the need for replacements. Autonomous operations, spectrum optimization, and traffic coordination further cut costs and enhance resource use, ensuring a safer and more sustainable space environment.
By leveraging AI capabilities, the space industry is not only increasing operational efficiency but is also contributing to the long-term sustainability of orbital activities, helping to preserve this critical environment for future generations.
AI deployment in the space domain is expected to enable fully automated satellite missions featuring adaptive orbit control, collective maneuvering, and distributed sensing and imaging. Automated in-orbit repair and refueling operations will also soon become possible. Similarly, deploying AI in the military space domain will enable real-time tracking of adversarial threats like ASAT missiles and guided countermeasures against both physical and cyber threats to military space assets.
As the deep space domain gains prominence, multiple missions will aim to install orbital and surface infrastructure for complex operations, which will heavily depend on AI to facilitate the automated assembly of space infrastructure, including orbiters and outposts, both in orbit and on the surface. Human-rated phases of deep space missions and edge cloud constellations in Earth orbit will further drive AI adoption. These applications will include automated diagnostics, decision support systems for astronauts, and distributed onboard processing within the space cloud.
As the deep space domain gains prominence, multiple missions will aim to install orbital and surface infrastructure for complex operations, which will heavily depend on AI to facilitate the automated assembly of space infrastructure, including orbiters and outposts, both in orbit and on the surface. Human-rated phases of deep space missions and edge cloud constellations in Earth orbit will further drive AI adoption. These applications will include automated diagnostics, decision support systems for astronauts, and distributed onboard processing within the space cloud.
Deep space missions will require significant infrastructure, including dedicated communication and navigation networks, landing pads, mobility systems, in-situ resource utilization plants, power stations, and lunar surface habitats. Developing these capabilities—such as radiation and thermal shielding, food production technology, outpost construction, launch technology for outpost-to-gateway logistics, and autonomous robotics—is essential before they can be optimized for deployment. This presents a significant market opportunity not only for the space industry but also for non-space businesses. The necessary validation process for these capabilities will require a key piece of orbital infrastructure in Earth orbit: a commercial space station, a critical demand the industry has yet to meet.
While several commercial space station programs are in the design and development stages, capability development is currently progressing organically and needs to be accelerated to keep deep space missions on schedule.
Moving space hardware between Earth orbit and lunar or Martian orbits will be a critical requirement, which will be fulfilled by space-tug-based last-mile delivery services. The launch industry is actively developing numerous space tugs that must be optimized and validated for deep space missions. This demand for customized lunar and planetary infrastructure, along with related enabling capabilities, will drive a market that generates a large-volume, recurring demand for both space and non-space participants. Increasing commercial investment in deep space missions will be a key driver of this growth.
Many agencies are targeting the moon, Mars, and beyond, with the UAE Space Agency among them, planning missions to the asteroid belt and Mars while also being a signatory of the 46 Artemis Accords. (The UAE Space Agency will be at The Dubai Airshow in November 2025 with its Expanded Space Pavilion)
Next-generation launch capabilities, supported by automation, will eventually drive the growth of deep space missions, with missions beyond Earth orbit increasing in both number and investment. This will fuel the overall expansion of the space industry. A key development will be the evolution of exploratory missions into outpost-based mining and research, while the market for LEO-based constellations will grow in parallel, enabling multiple advanced downstream services
Overall, the space industry is on the verge of a gradual transformation that will require collective efforts from both space and non-space market players. The question is, who will step up and gain an advantage as this evolution unfolds? Further insights into the space market can be obtained at The Dubai Airshow, scheduled to take place from November 17 to 21, 2025. During the event, specialized panel discussions on space topics will be held for industry participants to facilitate knowledge exchange and to enhance understanding of the emerging opportunities within the Middle East Space Economy
“We now have more than 170 companies targeted in this year’s space economic survey, and every year we have seen an increase in that number,”
“In Abu Dhabi, for example, there are more than 80 entities and in Dubai we have more than 40 that specialise in space and also companies that benefit from the sector.”
— Sarah Bamatraf, space policies and legislation specialist at the UAE Space Agency
The survey, first launched in 2022, collects data on revenue, expenditure, workforce demographics and research spending.
It helps officials track how government and commercial enterprises are contributing to the space economy.
Abu Dhabi’s Space42, a space technology company that trades on the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange (ADX), is one of the UAE’s most prominent organisations, developing communication and Earth observation satellites, as well as advanced AI mapping tools.
Smaller companies are also playing a role, with some that helped with the country’s landmark Hope probe Mars mission. The private sector is helping develop parts for the UAE’s asteroid belt mission, scheduled for launch in 2028.
Private sector boost
Salem Al Qubaisi, director general of the UAE Space Agency, told The National that the latest indicators suggested the sector was flourishing.
When asked what stood out from the previous 2023 survey, he said the private sector.
“What we can see is that there is positive growth in the sector, especially economically,”
“Hopefully we’ll see more companies venturing in the upstream. Most of the companies are in the downstream of the value chain.”
— Salem Al Qubaisi, director general of the UAE Space Agency
Building an ecosystem
Most companies today focus on downstream services such as Earth observation data, satellite communications and analytics.
But the government is pushing for organisations to take on upstream activities, such as satellite manufacturing and mission hardware.
The agency has introduced initiatives such as the Space Economic Zones programme, which is designed to attract and incentivise the private sector, to accelerate this shift.
“We’ve also been organising workshops for these companies and asked for their perspectives,”
“Two months ago, there was one that focused on the entire space ecosystem. We take these insights into consideration and turn them into policies and initiatives to support the growth of the private sector.”
— Sarah Bamatraf, space policies and legislation specialist at the UAE Space Agency
These measures are part of a global shift that Nasa helped to lead, in which it would rely heavily on awarding contracts to commercial companies for missions and services rather than carrying them out entirely in-house. This helps space agencies reduce costs and speed up innovation.
Statistics show momentum
The 2021 survey, released in 2023, revealed that total spending in the UAE space sector rose by 6.6 per cent year-on-year.
Commercial spending accounted for 44 per cent of the total, while government contributed the rest.
Spending on research and development increased by nearly 15 per cent, with the bulk directed at exploration activities. The findings for 2023 are expected to be released in November.
“The launch of the Sky Support Complex is a direct response to this growing need, as we remain committed to delivering high-quality facilities that support our partners and contribute to Dubai’s position as a global aviation hub,”
— Mohammad Al Falasi, deputy CEO of Mohammed bin Rashid Aerospace Hub.
Companies based at the Sky Support Complex will benefit from operating within a bonded free zone area that allows 100 percent foreign ownership. The facility also offers superior infrastructure when compared to other free zones, with flexible warehouse, office and commercial space options that can accommodate diverse business needs.
Additionally, the complex is adjacent to Al Maktoum International Airport providing seamless operational connectivity and access to the broader Dubai South ecosystem.
MBRAH offers global aerospace players high-level connectivity and is a free-zone destination for the world’s leading airlines, private jet companies, MROs and associated industries. Located in and developed by Dubai South, MBRAH is also home to maintenance centers and training and education campuses. It seeks to strengthen engineering industries to foster the emirate’s vision of becoming a leading aviation hub.
"From the heartland of America to the flight paths around the world, Dubai Airshow is a launchpad for partnerships that fuel economic growth and transform global connectivity. We're honoured to showcase and share CVG’s prowess in evolving passenger experience, advancing airport technologies, leveraging sustainability, and accelerating Advanced Air Mobility. CVG is leaning into the future for lasting economic goodness at global scale."
— Brian Cobb, Chief Innovation Officer at Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG)
Alongside it, our two-day Sustainability track dives into the future of greener skies- from cutting-edge aircraft and cleaner fuels to the policies that support building a net zero future for aviation.
“The Dubai Airshow 2025 conference is a vital platform for ideas and innovations that will define the next decade and beyond of aviation, space and defence. We are proud to bring together the world’s most influential industry voices to explore the opportunities ahead, and to solidify the UAE’s leading position as a global hub for the aerospace and defence industry.”
— Timothy Hawes, Managing Director at Informa Markets
The inaugural MRO track goes deep into fresh technology, evolving business models, and growth opportunities—giving attendees practical strategies they can apply right away.
At the Academy Stage, the spotlight turns to vital themes like cyber risk, tech innovation, and workforce inclusivity. The “NextGen Leaders” series opens the floor to students and young professionals ready to shape the next chapter of aerospace.
Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) will take centre stage, offering a close-up look at the technologies, policies, and partnerships changing how we think about flight. Meanwhile, sessions on Passenger Experience dive into how aviation can better serve travellers—offering smoother journeys, smarter services, and stronger connections.
“The Dubai Airshow is one of the most important global stages for aviation, and Archer is thrilled to take centre stage at such a pivotal moment for our industry. Building off the flight test program we now have underway in Abu Dhabi, we look forward to flying Midnight at the event and sharing Archer’s latest updates as we continue to showcase our global leadership in shaping the future of mobility with our partners in the UAE.”
— Adam Goldstein, Founder and CEO at Archer Aviation
Vista, the show’s flagship innovation platform, brings together startup founders, investors, and decision-makers over four energetic days. Expect breakthrough ideas, high-impact pitches, and real-time deal-making—all designed to turn bold thinking into business results.
This is your chance to experience what’s next. Join us at Dubai Airshow 2025—where innovation takes off.
Secure your pass today and be part of the aerospace revolution
* Visitors can register for an Experience Pass at $149, which gives access to the full exhibition, aircraft static and flying displays, conference sessions, the new Inspiration Zone and Wellness Zone, the Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) Zone, Space Pavillion, Airshow After Dark, curated guided tours, Skyview, and Skybites Catering Village.
This is a subtitle lorem ipsum
Mi tincidunt elit, id quisque ligula ac diam, amet. Vel etiam suspendisse morbi eleifend faucibus eget vestibulum felis. Dictum quis montes, sit sit. Tellus aliquam enim urna, etiam. Mauris posuere vulputate arcu amet, vitae nisi, tellus tincidunt. At feugiat sapien varius id.
Eget quis mi enim, leo lacinia pharetra, semper. Eget in volutpat mollis at volutpat lectus velit, sed auctor. Porttitor fames arcu quis fusce augue enim. Quis at habitant diam at. Suscipit tristique risus, at donec. In turpis vel et quam imperdiet. Ipsum molestie aliquet sodales id est ac volutpat.
This is a subtitle lorem ipsum
Mi tincidunt elit, id quisque ligula ac diam, amet. Vel etiam suspendisse morbi eleifend faucibus eget vestibulum felis. Dictum quis montes, sit sit. Tellus aliquam enim urna, etiam. Mauris posuere vulputate arcu amet, vitae nisi, tellus tincidunt. At feugiat sapien varius id.
Eget quis mi enim, leo lacinia pharetra, semper. Eget in volutpat mollis at volutpat lectus velit, sed auctor. Porttitor fames arcu quis fusce augue enim. Quis at habitant diam at. Suscipit tristique risus, at donec. In turpis vel et quam imperdiet. Ipsum molestie aliquet sodales id est ac volutpat.
This is a subtitle lorem ipsum
Mi tincidunt elit, id quisque ligula ac diam, amet. Vel etiam suspendisse morbi eleifend faucibus eget vestibulum felis. Dictum quis montes, sit sit. Tellus aliquam enim urna, etiam. Mauris posuere vulputate arcu amet, vitae nisi, tellus tincidunt. At feugiat sapien varius id.
Eget quis mi enim, leo lacinia pharetra, semper. Eget in volutpat mollis at volutpat lectus velit, sed auctor. Porttitor fames arcu quis fusce augue enim. Quis at habitant diam at. Suscipit tristique risus, at donec. In turpis vel et quam imperdiet. Ipsum molestie aliquet sodales id est ac volutpat.
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet consectetur.
Get the most recent news on the Dubai Air show delivered directly to your inbox.
By subscribing you agree to our Terms and Conditions