Türkiye’s first indigenous satellite successfully enters orbit (Malaysia)

Türkiye’s first indigenous satellite successfully enters orbit (Malaysia)

Türkiye's first domestically produced communication satellite has successfully entered orbit, marking a major achievement in the country's space program, Xinhua reported.

Abdulkadir Uraloğlu, Minister of Transport and Infrastructure, announced on Saturday on the X social media platform that the Turksat 6A satellite has reached its orbit at 42 degrees east.

"This satellite, which is the pride of our country, will make Türkiye an international player in space activities and strengthen our communication infrastructure," Uraloğlu said.

Following a final adjustment at 5 a.m., the satellite reached its "geosynchronous orbit" at a distance of 35,786 kilometres, as reported by local media.

After additional tests in orbit, Turksat 6A is expected to enter service in the first quarter of 2025.

Launched on July 9 from SpaceX facilities in Cape Canaveral, Florida, Turksat 6A is considered a major success for Türkiye's space program.