Tuesday 17 / March / 2026
Muscat: The Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology and the Environment Authority signed a cooperation programme with the Astronomical Solutions Company to implement a project hosting astronomical observatories and ground stations at the Western Hajar Starlight Reserve in A’Dakhiliyah Governorate.
This initiative comes within the framework of the technological Sandbox to support the development of the space sector and scientific research in the Sultanate of Oman.
The cooperation programme aims to establish a framework for coordination among the concerned authorities to implement the project within the reserve. This will enhance scientific research in the fields of astronomy and space, and contribute to consolidating the Sultanate of Oman's position as a suitable regional and global location for hosting astronomical observatories and ground stations. The project will strictly adhere to environmental sustainability standards, limiting light pollution and preserving the natural characteristics of the reserve.
The project involves hosting advanced astronomical observatories and ground stations dedicated to space communications and satellite tracking. By taking advantage of the clear skies and low light pollution in the reserve, the project provides an ideal environment for astronomical observation, scientific research, and technical experiments related to space sciences.
Under the programme, the Environment Authority will undertake the environmental supervision of the project, allocate the appropriate site within the reserve, and issue the necessary environmental approvals. The Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology will oversee the technical and technological aspects within the Sandbox environment, coordinate matters related to telecommunications infrastructure, and attract technical partners and operators. Meanwhile, the Astronomical Solutions Company will be responsible for designing, building, and operating the technical facilities and infrastructure of the project according to approved international standards, in addition to attracting investments and developing local and international research and scientific partnerships.
The implementation of the project stems from the Environment Authority's mandate to protect the natural environment and manage reserves. It is also aligned with the policy and executive program of the Oman Space Sector (2023–2033), as it is considered one of the strategic projects listed within the programme, enhancing the integration of environmental, technical, and scientific aspects.
Furthermore, this cooperation is part of the government's efforts to provide facilities and enablers for startups, and to create a stimulating investment environment for innovation and entrepreneurship in advanced technology sectors. This ultimately contributes to enhancing the competitiveness of the national economy and supporting the targets of the National Digital Economy Programme.
It is noteworthy that the Astronomical Solutions Company participated in the first edition of Oman Space Accelerator project. The winners of this accelerator were announced during the second edition of the Middle East Space Conference held in Muscat last month, which helped connect the company with investors in this sector.
This project is the first of its kind within the Sandbox environment in the space sector. It aims to test and develop space technologies within a flexible and safe regulatory environment, supporting knowledge transfer and capacity building. It opens new horizons for investment in the space sector, alongside promoting sustainable scientific and astronomical eco-tourism in the Sultanate of Oman.
