Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — Uzbekistan plans to launch its own scientific and technical satellite into orbit by 2028. The announcement was made by Mukhiddin Ibragimov, Deputy Director of the Uzbek Space Research Agency “Uzbekcosmos,” in an interview with Kazinform.

According to Ibragimov, negotiations are currently underway with the American company SpaceX, owned by Elon Musk, regarding the potential organization of the satellite launch. He emphasized the importance of aligning with international launch schedules and accommodating previously reserved time slots.

“Launch timelines are confirmed two to three years in advance. That’s why it’s crucial to sign agreements on time and prepare the technical specifications,” he noted.

As part of the project, seven Uzbek students began their master’s studies in 2024 at the Kyushu Institute of Technology in Japan. Their mission is to develop the satellite concept, assemble the device, and prepare it for launch. Completion of their studies by 2027 is expected to ensure the satellite can be launched by 2028.

Earlier reports indicated that the mission may be carried out in cooperation with member states of the Organization of Turkic States (OTS). In addition, Uzbekistan joined an international space exploration treaty in 2023, and the year before, it signed an intergovernmental agreement on space collaboration with Kazakhstan.