5 minute read•Updated 6:27 AM EST, Fri February 21, 2025
PLD Space has announced the selection of Etlaq Spaceport in Oman as its second global launch base.
This expansion strengthens the company's MIURA launch vehicle family operations and provides an enhanced service platform to meet growing commercial demand—particularly in the Middle East.
The strategic agreement, signed during the inaugural Etlaq Launch Conference (ELC 2025) in Muscat, marks a significant milestone for both PLD Space and Oman’s space ambitions. This move positions Etlaq as a key spaceport for MIURA 5, supporting its mission of 30 flights by 2030.
Etlaq’s launch infrastructure is also compatible with the entire MIURA rocket family, including future crewed missions of the LINCE capsule.
A Multi-Spaceport Strategy for Global Accessibility
PLD Space is implementing a multi-spaceport model, ensuring regional accessibility and maximum launch flexibilityfor its customers.
With its Launch Complex at the Guiana Space Centre (CSG) in Kourou, PLD Space already serves the Western markets, covering Europe and the Americas. Now, by integrating Etlaq, the company extends its reach into the Eastern market, bringing MIURA launch services closer to Middle Eastern clients.
In addition, PLD Space is set to announce a third spaceport next year, ensuring a truly global launch network across three different continents. This infrastructure expansion aligns with the company’s long-term vision to offer frequent, flexible, and globally distributed access to space.
Etlaq’s Strategic Advantages
Located in Duqm, on the southeastern coast of Oman, Etlaq’s spaceport offers several key advantages for MIURA launches.
Its proximity to the equator, provides efficient access to low-inclination orbits (GEO), medium-inclination orbits (ISS), and high-inclination orbits (SSO & Polar).
The launch site has a dry and stable climate which helps ensures high launch frequency with minimal weather-related delays.
A Milestone Agreement for Oman’s Space Industry
The official signing of the agreement took place at ELC 2025, with Raúl Verdú, Co-founder and CBDO of PLD Space, and His Highness Sayyid Azzan bin Qais Al Said, Founder & CEO of Etlaq, leading the event.
“We are proud to reach this milestone with PLD Space. This collaboration demonstrates Oman’s increasing role in the global space sector. By working with international launch providers, we aim to enhance our capabilities and contribute to the growing demand for flexible, efficient, and well-positioned spaceports.” - His Highness Sayyid Azzan bin Qais Al Said, CEO of Etlaq
PLD Space's expansion to Etlaq Spaceport marks a major step toward flexible, globally distributed space launches. With MIURA 5’s first Oman launch planned for 2027, PLD Space is one step closer to achieving its goal of 30 flights by 2030.
About Etlaq Spaceport
Etlaq is designed to accommodate multiple launch systems, ensuring flexibility for commercial, government, and research missions. The spaceport is divided into three main launch complexes, each tailored to different launch vehicle classes:
Launch Complex 1 (LC1) – Large-Class Vehicles
LC1 is designed to support large-class launch vehicles, as defined by FAA classifications.
This complex is intended for heavy payload launches, including potential human spaceflight and deep-space missions in the future.
Equipped with comprehensive payload processing, vehicle integration, and mission control facilities, LC1 is a cornerstone of Etlaq's infrastructure.
Launch Complex 2 (LC2) – Medium-Class Vehicles
LC2 supports medium-class rockets, serving as a launch site for MIURA 5 and other comparable vehicles.
Features high-efficiency launch pads and rapid turnaround capabilities for frequent commercial satellite deployments.
Advanced payload integration and support services ensure mission flexibility for small satellite constellations and research missions.
Launch Complex 3 (LC3) – Micro-Class Vehicles & Sounding Rockets
LC3 is designed for small-class launchers, including Rocket Lab’s Electron and Orbex Prime-class vehicles.
Features two launch pads, ensuring redundancy and allowing for uninterrupted launch operations.
Supports suborbital and sounding rocket missions, making it an ideal facility for scientific research and technology demonstrations.
Includes an Engine Test Facility, supporting static fire tests and propulsion system validations.
The industrial sector at Etlaq is strictly restricted to authorized personnel, as it houses critical infrastructure for launch operations and logistics. Key components include:
Payload Processing Facilities – Specialized cleanroom environments for preparing and integrating payloadsbefore launch.
General Warehousing & Storage – Secure, configurable facilities for launch hardware, fuel supplies, and mission-critical components.
Utilities Management & Distribution – Renewable power generation, water processing, and central IT support ensure the spaceport operates sustainably and efficiently.
The clerical sector at Etlaq is the administrative hub of the spaceport, ensuring smooth operations while facilitating interactions with visitors, staff, and space agencies. It includes:
Security Building – Monitors all spaceport movements and processes all personnel and visitors.
Administration Buildings – Office spaces for spaceport management, mission planning, and coordination.
Parking Facilities – Dedicated zones for staff, visitors, and administration personnel.
Accommodation & Hospitality – Lodging, cafes, and leisure areas for spaceport staff and visiting mission teams.
Visitor Center – Educational and interactive exhibits for pre-arranged groups, supporting public outreach and space education.
Helipad – Enables VIP transport and emergency response capabilities.
The Range Sector is one of the most security-sensitive zones of the spaceport, accessible only to authorized personnel managing launch and range control operations. This sector includes:
Launch/Mission Control Centers – Where PLD Space and other operators oversee launches, coordinate flight paths, and monitor vehicle status.
Range Control Center – Ensures safe and efficient range operations, including debris tracking and safety protocols.
Satellite Operations & Control Center – Extends spaceport capabilities to satellite tracking, control, and post-launch mission management.
Antenna Farm – Houses all communication and telemetry antennas required for launch and range operations.
Emergency Services Center – The coordinating hub for all permanent and temporary emergency response teams.
