Emirates Post issues new stamp commemorating UAE sat Y1A

Dubai: Emirates Post has issued a Dh4 stamp commemorating the UAE communications satellite Y1A.

The stamp is also available at a First Day Cover price of Dh5.

Y1A is a multi-purpose satellite by Yahsat, a private joint stock company fully owned by Mubadala, the investment arm of the Abu Dhabi government.

The satellite is the region’s first multipurpose communications satellite to offer Ka-band technology satellite solutions to governments and businesses.

Y1A is designed to provide advanced satellite services to Europe, the Middle East, Africa, Central and South West Asia.

It was launched into orbit in April 2011 from Kourou in French Guiana. It orbits 36,000km above the equator and is located at 52.5E.

The satellite’s length is equal to almost five double decker buses and its height is six metres. The six metric tonne satellite travels at roughly nine times the speed of sound – 1,224 km/h.

It has a lifespan of 15 years.

“The launch of Y1A in April 2011 ranks as one of the greatest scientific achievements of the UAE, helping our nation take its place among the leading satellite providers in the region. In addition, the launch saw the UAE forging strong partnerships with the international community, bridging the gap between East and West,” said Ebrahim Bin Karam, Chief Commercial Officer, Emirates Post Group.

Y1A is the first of two satellites to have been launched by Yahsat.

“The commemorative representation of Y1A on UAE stamps highlights the nation’s progressive achievement in the field of science and technology, a key pillar of Abu Dhabi’s 2030 vision,” said Jassem Al Zaabi, Yahsat’s chairman.