Science & Tech · Space · 41 mins ago
Fergani’s sixth satellite reaches its target orbit
Turkey’s Fergani Space sent its sixth satellite into orbit aboard SpaceX’s Bandwagon-5 mission.
The 160-kilogram FRG-100D4 separated from its launch vehicle about 63 minutes after launch and reached its target orbit, 590 kilometres above Earth.
It carries equipment developed by Fergani, including navigation, power and communications systems, as well as an artificial-intelligence-enabled computer for advanced missions.
Testing these locally developed components in space is intended to strengthen Turkey’s ability to build and operate its own space technology.
FRG-100D4 is a step towards the planned Uluğ Bey satellite network, which Fergani aims to complete using its own funds within five years.
The company says the network will have more than 200 satellites and could provide independent navigation and communications services for Turkey and other friendly regions.
Fergani is also continuing work on a domestically developed launch vehicle.
Fergani Space’s sixth satellite, FRG-100D4, reached its target orbit at an altitude of 590 kilometres.
The satellite separated from its launch vehicle about 63 minutes after launch on October 20, 2026.
It was launched from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in the United States as part of SpaceX’s Bandwagon-5 mission.
The 160-kilogram satellite carries domestically developed equipment, including an AI-supported computer and navigation and communications components.
Fergani aims to build the Uluğ Bey satellite constellation, with more than 200 satellites, within five years.
- Who
- Fergani Space developed the satellite.
- What
- FRG-100D4 reached its target orbit after separating from its launch vehicle.
- When
- October 20, 2026; it reached orbit at 15:07 Türkiye time.
- Where
- It launched from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in the United States and reached an orbit 590 kilometres above Earth.
- Why
- It is intended to validate domestically developed equipment in space and advance Fergani’s Uluğ Bey satellite constellation project.
This story does not have two clearly opposing sides.
Fergani began its space programme with the launch of its first satellite, FGN-100-D1.
FGN-100-D2 reached orbit.
Fergani launched its FGN-TUG-S01 orbital transfer vehicle.
Fergani launched its fifth spacecraft, FGN-100-D3.
FRG-100D4 launched and reached its target orbit after separating from its launch vehicle.
- Satellite
- FRG-100D4
- Orbit altitude
- 590 kilometres
- Mass
- 160 kilograms
- Launch mission
- SpaceX Bandwagon-5
- Launch site
- Cape Canaveral Space Force Station
- Constellation target
- More than 200 satellites within five years