Development and Capabilities of the Arab Satellite 813 for Earth Observation and Environmental Monitoring

Abstract. The National Space Science and Technology Centre (NSSTC) in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is leading the development of the Arab Satellite 813, an Earth observation (EO) platform equipped with hyperspectral imaging (HSI) capabilities. Funded by the UAE Space Agency (UAESA), this satellite aims to provide comprehensive data for environmental assessment and sustainable resource management. Arab Satellite 813 is designed to collect high spatial and spectral resolution data across the blue to Short-Wave- Infrared (SWIR-1) regions of the electromagnetic spectrum. Its primary payload, the HSI, supports applications such as inland water and coastal monitoring, soil characterization, land use mapping, agriculture and vegetation health assessment, and marine pollution monitoring. The satellite also includes a panchromatic (PAN) payload, providing high spatial resolution for detailed observations in specific regions. Additionally, the Atmospheric Polarimeter (AP) payload facilitates polarization data collection, aiding in understanding atmospheric dynamics and correcting HSI data, improving accuracy. The development of Arab Satellite 813 marks a significant advancement in Earth observation, particularly in the Middle East. Through cooperation agreements, data from the satellite can be accessed for research, positioning NSSTC as a key player in hyperspectral imaging. With excellent spectral resolution and high Signal to Noise Ratio (SNR), Arab Satellite 813 will contribute valuable insights into environmental processes and support sustainable resource management and environmental assessment.