Abu dhabi: Abu Dhabi Maritime Academy (ADMA), a key player in maritime training and part of AD Ports Group, has entered into an agreement with Orbitworks Satellites Manufacturing - L.L.C. - S.P.C. (Orbitworks) to enhance Earth Observation (EO) services using the Altair satellite constellation.
According to Emirates News Agency, the agreement was signed during the Make it In the Emirates forum in Abu Dhabi on May 4th, 2026. This partnership aims to bolster ADMA's digital services and research capabilities, extending its reach in maritime ecosystems, mineral exploration, and environmental monitoring.
Satellite intelligence from this collaboration will aid in ports management and monitoring by providing real-time data on vessel traffic, port infrastructure, and coastal activities. This real-time visibility is expected to enhance operational efficiency and situational awareness within maritime facilities, thereby strengthening applied research, innovation, and data-driven decision-making in coastal and offshore environments.
Dr. Yasser Al Wahedi, President of the Abu Dhabi Maritime Academy, emphasized the significance of this agreement in transforming applied research into operational capabilities. He highlighted that by leveraging advanced satellite and AI-driven intelligence, ADMA aims to enhance decision-making, optimize supply chains, and support sustainability, aligning with AD Ports Group's economic and environmental goals.
Dr. Hamdullah Mohib, Acting CEO of Orbitworks, expressed pride in delivering a fully integrated, UAE-assembled satellite solution. He stated that this collaboration supports the development of efficient, resilient, and sustainable digital services, advancing the UAE's space ambitions.
The Altair satellite constellation, consisting of 10 satellites with multi-sensor capabilities, offers Optical, Infrared, Thermal, and RF sensing, along with onboard AI processing powered by Nvidia GPUs. Its design supports applications in maritime domain awareness, environmental monitoring, and resource assessment.
The initiative will also enhance intelligence in the minerals sector, aiding the identification of deposits and optimizing mineral logistics. This is expected to improve mineral routing within the KEZAD Group ecosystem, positioning Abu Dhabi as a regional hub for mineral processing and trade.
In agriculture, the initiative will support supply chain coordination through crop yield forecasting and harvest logistics planning, enhancing efficiency in logistics networks linked to ports and trade corridors.
Additionally, advanced ecological research into UAE seagrass ecosystems will be enabled, focusing on habitat distribution and ecosystem health. This research, conducted in collaboration with Orbital Stations Monaco, aims to inform sustainability strategies.