Thuraya Joins the Space Data Association

DUBAI and the Isle of Man (May 27, 2013) – The Space Data Association (SDA) which has been established by commercial satellite operators to improve the safety and efficiency of space operations, today announced that Thuraya Telecommunications, the leading Mobile Satellite Services operator will join the organization as a Member. The SDA is a non-profit association that brings together international satellite operators in collaboration to share critical data and best practices which is vital to the safety and integrity of the space environment and the radio frequency (RF) spectrum.

Ahmed Al Shamsi, Chief Technology Officer at Thuraya said: “We are pleased to be part of the SDA and are firmly in support of their mission to facilitate the improved management of shared resources within the space environment and the RF spectrum. Fostering stronger collaboration within the industry enables global satellite operators like Thuraya to mitigate risks in our operations and to ensure the best possible service to our users. We are looking forward to working with our peers in taking this collaboration to the next level.”

Ronald C. Busch, Chairman and Executive Director of the SDA said: “Thuraya’s participation in the SDA is a strong attestation towards the value of our continued efforts. We welcome their participation as a new Member; and we look forward to being able to fully leverage their experience and status within the MSS sector. The SDA directors and I are looking forward to working with them as the SDA develops its capabilities and membership.”

As a Member, Thuraya will join the existing satellite operators including Intelsat, SES, Eutelsat and Inmarsat that sit on the board of the non-profit entity managing its activities in support of the space industry. As one of the world’s leading Mobile Satellite Services operators, Thuraya’s participation has been welcomed by existing SDA members that includes Arabsat, Telesat, Avanti, Echostar, GeoEye, Paradigm, SS/L and StarOne. The SDA continues to work with the other satellite operators participating in its operations in order to confirm their formal membership.

About SDA
The Space Data Association Limited (SDA) is a non-profit international association of satellite operators that supports the controlled, reliable and efficient sharing of data critical to the safety and integrity of the space environment and the RF spectrum. It maintains the Space Data Center, a database of high-accuracy orbital information, which is operated by Analytical Graphics, Inc. (AGI) of Exton, PA. Established in the Isle of Man, its executive members are Eutelsat, Inmarsat, Intelsat and SES. The SDA is open to all satellite operators and other participants. Membership information can be found at www.space-data.org.

Space Data Association Limited (also trading as “the Space Data Association” or “the SDA”).
Registered Office: Third Floor, 4 Athol Street, Douglas, IM1 1LD, Isle of Man, British Isle
Place of Incorporation: Isle of Man
Company Registration No: 123616C
Directors: R Busch; R Greenwood; J Mackey; M Rawlins; S Sanders

About Thuraya Telecommunications Company
Thuraya Telecommunications Company is an industry leading MSS operator and a global telecommunication provider offering innovative communications solutions to a variety of sectors including energy, broadcast media, maritime, military and humanitarian NGO. Thuraya’s superior network enables clear communications and uninterrupted coverage across two thirds of the globe by satellite and across the whole planet through its unique GSM roaming capabilities. The company’s diverse range of technologically superior and highly reliable mobile satellite handsets and broadband devices provide ease of use, value, quality and efficiency. Thuraya remains committed to serving humanity through delivering the essential tools for optimal connectivity, never leaving anyone out of reach.

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For further information please contact:
Shereen Hanafi
Director of Communications
Thuraya
Tel: + 971-4-4488-888
Email: [email protected]