Azerbaijan plans to launch its next observation satellite into orbit in 2026. Samaddin Asadov, Chairman of the Management Board of the State Agency for Digital Development and Transport under the Ministry of Transport, Communications and High Technologies, also known as the "Azercosmos," made this announcement to journalists.

"We plan to launch the next optical observation satellite into orbit in 2026," stated S. Asadov. It should be noted that last year, within the framework of the 74th International Astronautical Congress held in Baku, Azerbaijan, a cooperation agreement was signed between "Azercosmos" and the "Israel Aerospace Industries" (IAI) for the preparation of new observation satellites for Azerbaijan.

The "Azersky-2" program will not only ensure continuity in the observation of the Earth's surface sector in the country but will also open a new page in terms of business, including further development of the country's space ecosystem. According to the agreement, within the framework of the "Azersky-2" program, two satellites will be prepared, equipped with high-resolution electro-optical sensors for remote observation of the Earth. "IAI" will carry out the design, assembly, integration, and testing of the first satellite grouping of the program with the participation of Azerbaijani specialists.

Within the framework of the "IAI" program, all necessary ground systems for the management and operation of the "Azersky-2" system in Azerbaijan will be provided. Local experts will be trained in satellite control and image processing. The satellites will be launched into orbit in 2026 and 2028. The carrier rocket to launch the satellites into orbit will be determined in the coming months.