Bahrain will be launching its first satellite within two years, yup you heard right

Are you a Bahraini space enthusiast? Well you’re born in the right century because Bahrain has set up a “space team” to launch its first satellite into orbit in the next two years.

According to Kamal bin Ahmad, Bahrain’s transportation and telecommunications minister who is also in charge of the National Space Science Agency (NSSA), the plan comes as part of the country’s efforts to refurbish its space program. “The kingdom is planning to optimize the use of space sciences within five years to serve national development and keep abreast of global strides,” Kamal said.

He also adds that the NSSA has already launched a campaign to attract Bahraini nationals and private sector investment. He states that they’ve received around 400 applications, and they expect it’d increase as the deadline approaches on July 29.

Out of the applicants, 10 fresh university engineering graduates below the age of 35 are going to be selected as the core team of the space program. These 10 will then be undertaking a two-year training program.

“A five-member jury made up of NSSA officials and overseas experts will select the ten candidates in total transparency,” Kamal stated.

According to Kamal, more details are going to be announced in the upcoming six months. The Bahraini authorities have also stated that 15 companies so far have expressed their interest in supporting and funding the program.