Muscat: The second mission of a series of experimental space rocket launches, Duqm-2, has successfully concluded today without ignition of the vehicle. Stellar Kinetics’ Kea-1, a two-stage guided experimental suborbital vehicle, was set to launch from Etlaq Spaceport before it was halted during the final preparations due to a technical issue with onboard actuators.
According to Oman News Agency, Etlaq, Stellar Kinetics, and institutional partners gathered immense data leading up to the launch attempt before initiating protocols to safely unload the propellants from Kea-1 and secure the premises. Etlaq has successfully prepared and executed spaceport activities, accomplishing a number of goals and gaining critical insights across technical, operational, and logistical aspects.
The Duqm-2 mission supported the upskilling of Omanis in launch operations such as handling cryogenics, establishing power systems, constructing launch pad infrastructure, and providing tenant services. The launch attempt marked a major operational success for Etlaq Spaceport. HH Sayyid Azzan Qais Al Said, CEO of Etlaq Spaceport, said: ‘We achieved many objectives of the Duqm-2 mission, including planning the mission, navigating regulatory processes, designing ground infrastructure, and building an integration hangar.’
The experimental suborbital vehicle was designed by Stellar Kinetics to prove orbital class systems such as stage separation and guidance and navigation systems, while operating in the Middle Eastern summer on unprecedented timelines. Over the course of the 2-week campaign, the vehicle underwent successful payload integration, electronics testing, and fuel tank filling.
A spokesperson for Stellar Kinetics noted excitement in working closely with the Etlaq and NASCOM teams, highlighting the achievement of most objectives. The spokesperson added that the Stellar Kinetics team encountered an issue with a COTS valve actuator used for various systems on the Kea vehicle, leading to a postponement of the launch until a replacement solution is developed.
The Kea-1 vehicle carried two tethered payloads from international partners, spanning the UK and Taiwan, for scientific research and microgravity testing. The mission offered hands-on experience and critical data that will support the next generation of aerospace talent both locally and globally. Ieuan Carney, a PhD student from the University of Surrey, expressed pride in their achievements despite the setback.
SIGHT Space founder, Kevin Chen, emphasized the invaluable experience gained through collaboration and highlighted the importance of testing and iteration in space progress. Duqm-2 stands as a proud milestone for Etlaq and the Sultanate of Oman, reflecting its growing leadership in fostering international collaboration and enabling access to space. Etlaq Spaceport remains committed to supporting the global launch community by offering secure, responsive infrastructure for testing, suborbital research, and commercial demonstration.