{"id":72139,"date":"2016-01-21T20:53:50","date_gmt":"2016-01-21T12:53:50","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/wp-productionenv-bjg9h2g2bgg5b8aa.southeastasia-01.azurewebsites.net\/news\/the-middle-east-to-infinity-and-beyond\/"},"modified":"2016-01-21T20:53:50","modified_gmt":"2016-01-21T12:53:50","slug":"the-middle-east-to-infinity-and-beyond","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/starpath.global\/news\/the-middle-east-to-infinity-and-beyond\/","title":{"rendered":"The Middle East: to Infinity and Beyond?"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>The Middle East is a region that never seems to rest. From ancient times until today, it has been an unrelenting source of development, disruption and creation. Known historically as \u201cthe cradle of civilizations,\u201d the Middle East gave birth to the earliest societies and, in turn, the earliest urban life and centralized forms of political organizations. Fast forward to modern times and we find the Middle East home to the fledgling Gulf States and newly evolved Israel. It is unique: the Middle East is the birthplace of both the oldest and some of the youngest nations in the world, simultaneously.<\/p>\n<p>What is also remarkable is that the region seemingly makes history as often as it does news headlines. Against a politically and socially turbulent backdrop, the Middle East manages to create \u201cthe world\u2019s first\u201d something or the other time and time again. With the world\u2019s tallest building, biggest shopping complex, fanciest hotel, and on and on, it is a region of superlatives, a region of significant achievements \u2014 and these achievements are not only earth bound. The Middle East has made a considerable impact on the space and satellite industries. It has not only rapidly caught up to long-standing players, but a multitude of industry insiders expect it to become the fastest growing market in coming years.<\/p>\n<p>\t\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" src=\"https:\/\/www.satellitetoday.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/02\/65yzSxcaQfG274RHzKy8_01_VS_020116_Cover-300x225.jpg\" class=\"attachment-medium size-medium\" alt=\"\" style=\"width: 120px; height: auto;\" decoding=\"async\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.satellitetoday.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/02\/65yzSxcaQfG274RHzKy8_01_VS_020116_Cover-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.satellitetoday.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/02\/65yzSxcaQfG274RHzKy8_01_VS_020116_Cover-800x600.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.satellitetoday.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/02\/65yzSxcaQfG274RHzKy8_01_VS_020116_Cover-640x480.jpg 640w, https:\/\/www.satellitetoday.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/02\/65yzSxcaQfG274RHzKy8_01_VS_020116_Cover.jpg 1280w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\">\t\t\t<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"fs-5 mt-0\">Explore the February 2016 Issue<\/h3>\n<p class=\"mb-0 fs-smaller text-balance\">Check out more from this issue and find your next story to read.<\/p>\n<p>\t\t\t<button class=\"btn btn-primary\" type=\"button\" data-bs-toggle=\"offcanvas\" data-bs-target=\"#offcanvasMENU\" aria-controls=\"offcanvasExample\" aria-label=\"button\" style=\"white-space: nowrap;\"><br \/>\n\t\t\t\tView More <i class=\"bi bi-arrow-right-circle\"><\/i><br \/>\n\t\t\t<\/button><\/p>\n<p>This market is certainly promising, but it is also equally complex. The wealth of the oil-rich states together with the region\u2019s need for reliable communications in the face of looming security threats translate to a boon for the satellite industry, particularly for the manufacturing sector. This market, comprising a mix of ethnic, linguistic and religious groups, is not only crowded geographically but also in terms of consumer demographics. And, as a cradle of civilizations, there is always an overtly geopolitical element to the Middle East space market. The inherent competition among Arab states as well as between Gulf Arabs and Iran adds to this. The result is that the Middle East market is not only highly competitive but also forever changing with the political realities on the ground.<\/p>\n<figure><img decoding=\"async\" alt=\"Placeholder alt text\" src=\"http:\/\/s3.amazonaws.com\/marquee-test-akiaisur2rgicbmpehea\/6q8mMJySQuGn6RwDyViH_UAESA%20Belarus%20visit_0.jpg\"><figcaption>UAE Space AgencyUAE Space Agency delegation at the Peleng, the industrial arm of the Government of Belarus.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>So, in an ever-changing landscape, where is the market headed? In addition to the region\u2019s need for reliable and secure communications for military and defense, the Middle East\u2019s vibrant broadcast industry is a major driver of satellite usage. This is in parallel with the growth seen across the Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) and mobility markets, and in the aviation, maritime and oil and gas sectors, which increasingly need connectivity for both critical communications and to appease the consumer demand trends of employees and passengers. These sectors are expected to remain strong, but what is also being seen is increasing developments in Earth observation. While it has security and energy applications, both crucial for the region, Earth observation is being used to provide an ample feeding ground for training and human skills development, something being well harnessed by the United Arab Emirates with its nascent space program.<\/p>\n<h2>Earth Observation and Exploration<\/h2>\n<p>Not only can human skills and education be spurred, but also quality of life improves while fueling the global economy, says Mohamed Al Ahbabi, director general of the UAE Space Agency, pointing to the benefits of developing solid space foundations and applications.<\/p>\n<p><script>var AIAD_fcd45f981d570e35cee941b23edc69c7_6a68b56fbfa5e;googletag.cmd.push(function(){var AIMAP_29b58f13885ebf8ea6b032f958eb0748 = googletag.sizeMapping().addSize([992, 100], [[970, 90], [970, 250]]).addSize([768, 100], [728, 90]).addSize([320, 100], [320, 50]).build();var AIMAP_737ce075cc05dd766c8f8ea08f3faa73 = googletag.sizeMapping().addSize([768, 100], [728, 90]).addSize([320, 100], [320, 50]).build();var AIMAP_21fe3bcfb86a8660aba4e721ee9338f3 = googletag.sizeMapping().addSize([1200, 100], [970, 250]).addSize([768, 100], [600, 300]).addSize([320, 100], [300, 250]).build();AIAD_fcd45f981d570e35cee941b23edc69c7_6a68b56fbfa5e = googletag.defineSlot('\/987\/satellitetoday.com\/via-satellite-digital-issue-ads', [ [600, 300], [300, 250], [970, 250] ], 'div-gpt-ad-1774631144891- 0-6a68b56fbfa5f').defineSizeMapping(AIMAP_21fe3bcfb86a8660aba4e721ee9338f3).setCollapseEmptyDiv(true).addService(googletag.pubads());   });<\/script><script>googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-1774631144891- 0-6a68b56fbfa5f'); });<\/script><\/p>\n<p>\u201cThe aerospace and space industries in the UAE continue to be key drivers of the national economy. Today, the UAE operates seven satellites for both commercial and Milsatcom use as national investment in space technology continues to grow. The UAE seeks to develop a long-term strategic plan for a solid and sustainable foundation for advanced space innovation and exploration, all of which is expected to aid the growth of science and a knowledge-based economy. Within the $300 billion international space industry, the UAE\u2019s investment in space technology is already substantial, exceeding $5.44 billion. These investments include data and TV broadcast company Yahsat, mobile satellite communications company Thuraya, and Earth mapping and observation system DubaiSat,\u201d says Al Ahbabi.<\/p>\n<figure><img decoding=\"async\" alt=\"Placeholder alt text\" src=\"http:\/\/s3.amazonaws.com\/marquee-test-akiaisur2rgicbmpehea\/pDPqDeFQxy2LOYGNpIgA_The%20UAE%20Space%20Agency%20and%20the%20Centre%20National%20d%27Etudes%20Spatiales%20today%20has%20signed%20an%20MoU._0.jpg\"><figcaption>UAE Space AgencyHE Khalifa Mohammed Al Rumaithi and Jean-Yves Le Gall signing an MoU, which allows for extensive future cooperation activities in the field of space.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>With plans for a future mission to Mars, the UAE Space Agency was founded in 2014, effectively banding together all arms of the country\u2019s space program. Its arrival fueled the country\u2019s ambitions to not only join the space race, but also emerge as a global front runner through the development of new technologies, expertise and intellectual property. The UAE Space Agency has been working closely with schools and education councils to ensure that STEM is a key focus area.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cEducation experts are advising on curriculum developments that will include more on space science so that children are taught and inspired at an early age about the opportunities that the space industry brings. Special campaigns to engage with school children are also being introduced to keep the education fun and exciting,\u201d says Al Ahbabi, adding that fostering space-related academia and know-how is key to ensuring national and regional security.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cMany security operations today depend on space. Approximately 60 nations own and operate at least one satellite. Today, space capabilities are crucial for a range of defense and security activities including responding to humanitarian relief after natural disasters in addition to times of war. Therefore, every nation needs to develop a suitable strategy to safeguard its interests in space and its space-borne assets,\u201d says Al Ahbabi.<\/p>\n<p>As campaigns for primary and secondary schools continue, the UAE has already laid a solid foundation of Emirati scientific skills, acquired through the knowledge-transfer partnership with Korean Satrec Initiave, which saw the joint manufacture and launch of DubaiSat 1 and DubaiSat 2, the country\u2019s Earth observation satellites. This foundation is now being built upon as the country\u2019s third satellite is being developed, this time exclusively by Emirati engineers with Satrec Initiative only overseeing the manufacture. Developed by the Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC), the upcoming satellite, dubbed KhalifaSat, is expected to be launched in 2018.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cIn such a competitive landscape, it\u2019s always important to have the right partners. We are building ties with companies and educational institutions to put transfer of knowledge programs in place so that we build specialized manpower while simultaneously developing existing cadres. We have alliances with the likes of the Satrec Initiative to promote our satellite products and have signed contracts with leading providers of integrated and customized solutions for Earth observation missions. These include global promotion and distribution of DubaiSat 2\u2019s products and services to customers worldwide,\u201d says Salem Al Marri, assistant director general for scientific and technical affairs at MBRSC.<\/p>\n<p>The UAE has well-defined long-term goals with the short-term focus on the completion of KhalifaSat and the UAE Mars Mission, which involves the Hope Probe being designed, built and assembled in the UAE before being sent out to the Red Planet.<\/p>\n<figure><img decoding=\"async\" alt=\"Placeholder alt text\" src=\"http:\/\/s3.amazonaws.com\/marquee-test-akiaisur2rgicbmpehea\/OjV5i5dTQfSHmqybJP3I_Airbus_VS_0216.jpg\"><\/figure>\n<p>\u201cThe mission to Mars, scheduled for 2020, is our first major mission and that is our main focus in terms of space projects. The UAE also plans to open the first space research center in the Middle East in 2017. Additionally, we are also working on developing space policies and regulations,\u201d says the UAE Space Agency\u2019s Al Ahbabi.<\/p>\n<p>Similarly to the UAE\u2019s quest to gather, develop and increase specialized human capital in the space sector, Qatar is following its 2030 National Vision for human, social, economic and environmental development. Qatar is leveraging ITC and its space-related activities to facilitate education and training and promote advanced sciences. While the UAE\u2019s quest will see increased Earth observation applications and developments, Qatar\u2019s ambitions will continue to drive services for broadcast and communications.<\/p>\n<p><script>var AIAD_fcd45f981d570e35cee941b23edc69c7_6a68b56fc034d;googletag.cmd.push(function(){var AIMAP_29b58f13885ebf8ea6b032f958eb0748 = googletag.sizeMapping().addSize([992, 100], [[970, 90], [970, 250]]).addSize([768, 100], [728, 90]).addSize([320, 100], [320, 50]).build();var AIMAP_737ce075cc05dd766c8f8ea08f3faa73 = googletag.sizeMapping().addSize([768, 100], [728, 90]).addSize([320, 100], [320, 50]).build();var AIMAP_21fe3bcfb86a8660aba4e721ee9338f3 = googletag.sizeMapping().addSize([1200, 100], [970, 250]).addSize([768, 100], [600, 300]).addSize([320, 100], [300, 250]).build();AIAD_fcd45f981d570e35cee941b23edc69c7_6a68b56fc034d = googletag.defineSlot('\/987\/satellitetoday.com\/via-satellite-digital-issue-ads', [ [600, 300], [300, 250], [970, 250] ], 'div-gpt-ad-1774631144891- 0-6a68b56fc034e').defineSizeMapping(AIMAP_21fe3bcfb86a8660aba4e721ee9338f3).setCollapseEmptyDiv(true).addService(googletag.pubads());   });<\/script><script>googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-1774631144891- 0-6a68b56fc034e'); });<\/script><\/p>\n<h2>DTH, Security and UAVs<\/h2>\n<p>For Qatari satellite operator Es\u2019hailSat, spurring space-related knowledge and training is as important as its current focus on Direct-to-Home (DTH) services. Es\u2019hailSat has a number of educational programs, the first of which saw four engineers complete a 26-month intensive satellite training program with Space Systems Loral (SSL), the company that manufactured Es\u2019hail 1, Qatar\u2019s first satellite. The operator has also sponsored a number of engineering degrees specializing in satellite communications at Surrey University in the United Kingdom.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cThese steps are part of our program to develop a core expertise in satellite technology and develop our future leaders. Having satellite knowledge and operational experience plays a vital role in greater self-reliance and, therefore, sustainability,\u201d says Ali Ahmed Al Kuwari, president and CEO of Es\u2019hailSat.<\/p>\n<figure><img decoding=\"async\" alt=\"Placeholder alt text\" src=\"http:\/\/s3.amazonaws.com\/marquee-test-akiaisur2rgicbmpehea\/l2lg6g4yRDSykMy2rG76_Emirati%20engineers%20at%20MBRSC.jpg\"><figcaption>UAE Space AgencyEmirati engineers at MBRSC.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>Es\u2019hailSat is currently preparing for the launch of its second satellite Es\u2019hail 2, scheduled for commercial service in early 2017, and aims to enhance its DTH hotspot in the region through new capacity as well as broadcasting unique content and channels. It is also developing a new teleport facility providing satellite Telemetry, Tracking and Control (TT&amp;C) and communications support, as well as uplinking and reception facilities.<\/p>\n<p>According to Al Kuwari, the next 10 years will see changes in many satellite sectors. In addition to Earth observation, these will include DTH and telecom with a major spike seen in UAV services in the next five years. UAV demand will largely be directly linked to the region\u2019s security and political instability, says Al Kuwari, explaining that Middle Eastern militaries have started investing in tactical and surveillance technologies, attributing to the four-fold growth seen in UAVs. This will lead to many countries in the Middle East owning and operating UAV fleets in the coming years, he says.<\/p>\n<p>Mobility, on the back of government-driven UAV demand as well as maritime and commercial aviation, will continue to keep growth in the Middle East market moving, says Al Kuwari.<\/p>\n<h2>Broadcast<\/h2>\n<p>The Middle East satellite market is well positioned to see growth across all applications. However, the DTH market and associated video services look favorable, especially as customers take an increasing interest in HD, 4K or 8K. With broadcast being such a vibrant market it is the main driver of satellite, next to security, in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA).<\/p>\n<p>\u201cThe dynamic broadcast and digital media sector is expected to grow annually by 7 percent from 2016 to 2019,\u201d says Al Kuwari.<\/p>\n<figure><img decoding=\"async\" alt=\"Placeholder alt text\" src=\"http:\/\/s3.amazonaws.com\/marquee-test-akiaisur2rgicbmpehea\/rCkfS7enS42dNrDGnzyO_Hughes_VS_0515.jpg\"><\/figure>\n<p>OSN, a Dubai-based direct-broadcast satellite provider serving the MENA, believes satellite will remain a primary delivery technology. While the company sees the region\u2019s robust FTA market blossoming still, it expects pay-TV, which has relatively low penetration levels, to grow.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cI also believe that, as infrastructure across the region continues to improve, there will be growth in [Over-the-Top] OTT delivery opportunities, but I\u2019m not sure I see that at the expense of satellite distribution,\u201d says Mark Billinge, chief technology officer at OSN. \u201cWhile I firmly believe satellite will remain the primary means of reaching the audience, with the quality of service we are committed to deliver, it is also important we embrace new OTT technologies to ensure the most dynamic and flexible service we can.\u201d<\/p>\n<p><script>var AIAD_fcd45f981d570e35cee941b23edc69c7_6a68b56fc0a31;googletag.cmd.push(function(){var AIMAP_29b58f13885ebf8ea6b032f958eb0748 = googletag.sizeMapping().addSize([992, 100], [[970, 90], [970, 250]]).addSize([768, 100], [728, 90]).addSize([320, 100], [320, 50]).build();var AIMAP_737ce075cc05dd766c8f8ea08f3faa73 = googletag.sizeMapping().addSize([768, 100], [728, 90]).addSize([320, 100], [320, 50]).build();var AIMAP_21fe3bcfb86a8660aba4e721ee9338f3 = googletag.sizeMapping().addSize([1200, 100], [970, 250]).addSize([768, 100], [600, 300]).addSize([320, 100], [300, 250]).build();AIAD_fcd45f981d570e35cee941b23edc69c7_6a68b56fc0a31 = googletag.defineSlot('\/987\/satellitetoday.com\/via-satellite-digital-issue-ads', [ [600, 300], [300, 250], [970, 250] ], 'div-gpt-ad-1774631144891- 0-6a68b56fc0a32').defineSizeMapping(AIMAP_21fe3bcfb86a8660aba4e721ee9338f3).setCollapseEmptyDiv(true).addService(googletag.pubads());   });<\/script><script>googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-1774631144891- 0-6a68b56fc0a32'); });<\/script><\/p>\n<h2>UAE puts Pay-TV on the Map<\/h2>\n<p>Pay-TV adds vibrancy to the market but despite anticipated growth, TV distribution in the Middle East will remain overwhelmingly dominated by satellite, principally by FTA. After military and defense applications, the main driver of satellite is the Middle East\u2019s broadcast industry. It is so heavily defined by a multitude of FTA channels that it makes the region\u2019s broadcast landscape unique. What further separates the region\u2019s market from North America and Europe, as examples, is that the vast majority of FTA channels are broadcasting in SD.<\/p>\n<p>In the nine years between January 2004 and May 2013, the FTA segment saw a staggering 599 percent growth in the number of channels broadcasting in SD, according to research by the Arab Advisors Group. Against the 699 SD channels, just 2.4 percent of the FTA channels are broadcast in HD only, with 7.3 percent of the channels broadcasting in both SD and HD. This means that, while HD still has a long way to go to catch up, the challenge also represents a good opportunity for growth.<\/p>\n<figure><img decoding=\"async\" alt=\"Placeholder alt text\" src=\"http:\/\/s3.amazonaws.com\/marquee-test-akiaisur2rgicbmpehea\/U27gLAZcQxmps7DaDwWg_BroadcastAsia_VS_0216.jpg\"><\/figure>\n<p>A similar opportunity also exists for pay-TV. It is true that the region is an FTA paradise, but this doesn\u2019t mean an ill fate for pay-TV. With relatively low penetration levels, the proposition has a lot of room to develop. And this includes growth in OTT delivery opportunities, says Mark Billinge, chief technology officer at OSN. Serving the Middle East and North Africa, OSN is a Dubai-based direct-broadcast satellite provider.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cThe region\u2019s market is unique by the fact there are hundreds of FTA channels all competing for customers viewing time. I\u2019m not sure there are many markets in the world, if any, where there is a similar scenario. That makes the challenge for pay-TV even harder. To communicate the value of the content, differentiation and technology experience you gain through the platform is even more vital for us. But still the future is bright,\u201d says Billinge.<\/p>\n<p>Is the UAE the beacon lighting this bright future? Figures provided by research group Ovum would suggest so. Ovum finds pay-TV in the UAE stronger than in other markets in the region. Pay digital satellite television accounted for 30 percent of homes at the end of 2012, compared with 24 percent only watching FTA digital satellite channels and IPTV watchers at 29 percent. With IPTV and pay-TV expected to see continued growth, the UAE will play an important role in sustaining pay-TV\u2019s lifeline in the region.<\/p>\n<p>So, while growth in IPTV penetration and pay-TV is likely, DTH will remain the region\u2019s primary distribution.&nbsp;<strong>VS<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><sub><em>Adrienne Harebottle&nbsp;is a media specialist and freelance writer for the space, satellite&nbsp;and telecommunications sectors.<\/em><\/sub><\/p>\n<p>,<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"widget-title\">In This Issue<\/h2>\n<p>\t\t\t\t\t<!-- post id 192:  \/code\/wp-content\/themes\/ai-beehive\/template-parts\/content\/post-snippet.php --><\/p>\n<figure class=\"overflow-hidden w-100 me-3\">\n<p>\t<img loading=\"lazy\" width=\"300\" height=\"169\" src=\"https:\/\/www.satellitetoday.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/01\/em9RbbzSTqzN0VhV5EBK_Generation20Next-300x169.jpg\" class=\"img-responsive wp-post-image\" alt=\"\" style=\"\" decoding=\"async\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.satellitetoday.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/01\/em9RbbzSTqzN0VhV5EBK_Generation20Next-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.satellitetoday.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/01\/em9RbbzSTqzN0VhV5EBK_Generation20Next-800x450.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.satellitetoday.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/01\/em9RbbzSTqzN0VhV5EBK_Generation20Next-640x360.jpg 640w, https:\/\/www.satellitetoday.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/01\/em9RbbzSTqzN0VhV5EBK_Generation20Next.jpg 1280w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\">\t\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n<h3 class=\"fs-4 w-100 line-clamp-3\">\n<p>\t\t\t\tGeneration Next: Ali Hasan Bani Malek, Yahsat<br \/>\n\t\t<\/h3>\n<p><!-- .post-snippet --><\/p>\n<hr class=\"my-3 d-block d-md-none\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<!-- post id 187:  \/code\/wp-content\/themes\/ai-beehive\/template-parts\/content\/post-snippet.php --><\/p>\n<figure class=\"overflow-hidden w-100 me-3\">\n<p>\t<img width=\"300\" height=\"199\" src=\"https:\/\/www.satellitetoday.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/01\/SWu1H0jhSoeGKAeltKnc_22085692324_3077900da3_o-300x199.jpg\" class=\"img-responsive wp-post-image\" alt=\"\" style=\"\" decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.satellitetoday.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/01\/SWu1H0jhSoeGKAeltKnc_22085692324_3077900da3_o-300x199.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.satellitetoday.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/01\/SWu1H0jhSoeGKAeltKnc_22085692324_3077900da3_o-800x532.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.satellitetoday.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/01\/SWu1H0jhSoeGKAeltKnc_22085692324_3077900da3_o-640x426.jpg 640w, https:\/\/www.satellitetoday.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/01\/SWu1H0jhSoeGKAeltKnc_22085692324_3077900da3_o.jpg 1280w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\">\t\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n<h3 class=\"fs-4 w-100 line-clamp-3\">\n<p>\t\t\t\tHow WRC-15 Led to the Big C-band Decision<br \/>\n\t\t<\/h3>\n<p><!-- .post-snippet --><\/p>\n<hr class=\"my-3\">\n<p>\t\t\t\t\t<!-- post id 186:  \/code\/wp-content\/themes\/ai-beehive\/template-parts\/content\/post-snippet.php --><\/p>\n<figure class=\"overflow-hidden w-100 me-3\">\n<p>\t<img width=\"300\" height=\"188\" src=\"https:\/\/www.satellitetoday.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/01\/sdqkIQ4xTSSmYevooOLR_abstract_color_background_picture_8016-wide-300x188.jpg\" class=\"img-responsive wp-post-image\" alt=\"\" style=\"\" decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.satellitetoday.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/01\/sdqkIQ4xTSSmYevooOLR_abstract_color_background_picture_8016-wide-300x188.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.satellitetoday.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/01\/sdqkIQ4xTSSmYevooOLR_abstract_color_background_picture_8016-wide-800x500.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.satellitetoday.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/01\/sdqkIQ4xTSSmYevooOLR_abstract_color_background_picture_8016-wide-640x400.jpg 640w, https:\/\/www.satellitetoday.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/01\/sdqkIQ4xTSSmYevooOLR_abstract_color_background_picture_8016-wide.jpg 1280w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\">\t\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n<h3 class=\"fs-4 w-100 line-clamp-3\">\n<p>\t\t\t\tSatellite Executive of the Year: Our Shortlist Revealed<br \/>\n\t\t<\/h3>\n<p><!-- .post-snippet --><\/p>\n<hr class=\"my-3 d-block d-md-none\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<!-- post id 189:  \/code\/wp-content\/themes\/ai-beehive\/template-parts\/content\/post-snippet.php --><\/p>\n<figure class=\"overflow-hidden w-100 me-3\">\n<p>\t<img width=\"291\" height=\"300\" src=\"https:\/\/www.satellitetoday.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/01\/MEKxzZEcSCGRiNm8auWU_05_VS_050119_SEOTY_Nom-291x300.jpg\" class=\"img-responsive wp-post-image\" alt=\"\" style=\"\" decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.satellitetoday.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/01\/MEKxzZEcSCGRiNm8auWU_05_VS_050119_SEOTY_Nom-291x300.jpg 291w, https:\/\/www.satellitetoday.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/01\/MEKxzZEcSCGRiNm8auWU_05_VS_050119_SEOTY_Nom-777x800.jpg 777w, https:\/\/www.satellitetoday.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/01\/MEKxzZEcSCGRiNm8auWU_05_VS_050119_SEOTY_Nom-640x659.jpg 640w, https:\/\/www.satellitetoday.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/01\/MEKxzZEcSCGRiNm8auWU_05_VS_050119_SEOTY_Nom.jpg 1280w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 291px) 100vw, 291px\">\t\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n<h3 class=\"fs-4 w-100 line-clamp-3\">\n<p>\t\t\t\tSatellite Executive of the Year: The Nominees<br \/>\n\t\t<\/h3>\n<p><!-- .post-snippet --><\/p>\n<hr class=\"my-3\">\n<p>\t\t\t\t\t<!-- post id 191:  \/code\/wp-content\/themes\/ai-beehive\/template-parts\/content\/post-snippet.php --><\/p>\n<figure class=\"overflow-hidden w-100 me-3\">\n<p>\t<img width=\"300\" height=\"200\" src=\"https:\/\/www.satellitetoday.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/01\/WdEeRa7FTtuG40OgGYAD_World_Cup_Qualifiers.jpg-300x200.jpeg\" class=\"img-responsive wp-post-image\" alt=\"\" style=\"\" decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.satellitetoday.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/01\/WdEeRa7FTtuG40OgGYAD_World_Cup_Qualifiers.jpg-300x200.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/www.satellitetoday.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/01\/WdEeRa7FTtuG40OgGYAD_World_Cup_Qualifiers.jpg-800x533.jpeg 800w, https:\/\/www.satellitetoday.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/01\/WdEeRa7FTtuG40OgGYAD_World_Cup_Qualifiers.jpg-640x427.jpeg 640w, https:\/\/www.satellitetoday.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/01\/WdEeRa7FTtuG40OgGYAD_World_Cup_Qualifiers.jpg.jpeg 1280w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\">\t\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n<h3 class=\"fs-4 w-100 line-clamp-3\">\n<p>\t\t\t\tSatellites and the Beautiful Game<br \/>\n\t\t<\/h3>\n<p><!-- .post-snippet --><\/p>\n<hr class=\"my-3 d-block d-md-none\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<!-- post id 190:  \/code\/wp-content\/themes\/ai-beehive\/template-parts\/content\/post-snippet.php --><\/p>\n<figure class=\"overflow-hidden w-100 me-3\">\n<p>\t<img width=\"300\" height=\"188\" src=\"https:\/\/www.satellitetoday.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/01\/kY1ce9sQLuIfo6O7d2uR_background-wallpapers-32-300x188.jpg\" class=\"img-responsive wp-post-image\" alt=\"\" style=\"\" decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.satellitetoday.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/01\/kY1ce9sQLuIfo6O7d2uR_background-wallpapers-32-300x188.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.satellitetoday.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/01\/kY1ce9sQLuIfo6O7d2uR_background-wallpapers-32-800x500.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.satellitetoday.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/01\/kY1ce9sQLuIfo6O7d2uR_background-wallpapers-32-640x400.jpg 640w, https:\/\/www.satellitetoday.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/01\/kY1ce9sQLuIfo6O7d2uR_background-wallpapers-32.jpg 1280w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\">\t\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n<h3 class=\"fs-4 w-100 line-clamp-3\">\n<p>\t\t\t\tSatellites Transforming our Lives \u2013 A Message in Need of Delivery<br \/>\n\t\t<\/h3>\n<p><!-- .post-snippet --><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>The Middle East is a region that never seems to rest. From ancient times until today, it has been an unrelenting source of development, disruption and creation. Known historically as \u201cthe cradle of civilizations,\u201d the Middle East gave birth to the earliest societies and, in turn, the earliest urban life and centralized forms of political [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":72141,"comment_status":"","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"inline_featured_image":false,"footnotes":"","_links_to":"","_links_to_target":""},"categories":[2],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-72139","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-news"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/starpath.global\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/72139"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/starpath.global\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/starpath.global\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/starpath.global\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/starpath.global\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=72139"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/starpath.global\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/72139\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/starpath.global\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/72141"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/starpath.global\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=72139"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/starpath.global\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=72139"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/starpath.global\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=72139"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}