GÖKTÜRK-1 Satellite Sees Progress with Thermal Tests
**The President of the Defense Industry, Haluk Görgün, announced today that thermal model tests for the GÖKTÜRK-1 Renewal Satellite have officially commenced. During a press conference, Görgün offered insights into various satellite projects, emphasizing the significance of this milestone. He stated, “The thermal model tests for the GÖKTÜRK-1 Renewal Satellite started today at TUSAŞ USET. The next model will be the flight model GÖKTÜRK-1Y.”** This announcement marks a pivotal moment in the satellite’s development as the project progresses toward its launch readiness after the successful conclusion of these tests.
The GÖKTÜRK-1 Renewal Satellite is a crucial component of Turkey’s defense industry, particularly in the realm of space technology. With an electro-optical camera designed specifically for earth observation and reconnaissance missions, GÖKTÜRK-1Y is set to play a vital role in addressing various operational needs. Initiated in 2021, the GÖKTÜRK-Y project aims to bolster Turkey’s autonomy in space technology and to advance its capabilities in earth observation satellite systems.
A significant milestone was reached in 2023 when the Preliminary Design Review (PDR) was successfully completed. This phase involved a thorough evaluation of the satellite’s fundamental design and verification of engineering and system requirements. The successful completion of the PDR has not only accelerated the project but also laid a solid foundation for moving forward to the next stages of development.
The technical specifications of the GÖKTÜRK-Y satellite highlight its importance in reconnaissance and optical applications. Developed by TUSAŞ, this satellite has a mass of 1000 kg and is designed to operate in Low Earth Orbit (LEO) for a lifespan of seven years. In 2024, the Structural and Thermal Compliance Model will be utilized to assess the satellite’s robustness against the challenges of launch and space conditions.
Looking ahead, the project aims to complete the Critical Design Review (CDR) phase by 2025. This critical phase will facilitate a detailed design evaluation, paving the way for production and integration. Notably, the indigenous computer systems developed by Turkish Aerospace Industries will be incorporated into the GÖKTÜRK-Y project, enhancing Turkey’s technological self-sufficiency and operational independence in space.
Furthermore, the GÖKTÜRK-Y project is not only a significant stride towards advancing Turkey’s space technology but also aims to strengthen the nation’s overall capability and independence in this vital field. The successful development of the GÖKTÜRK-1 and GÖKTÜRK-Y satellites underscores Turkey’s commitment to becoming a key player in the global space landscape.
Statements from Prof. Dr. Lokman Kuzu regarding the GÖKTÜRK-3 SAR Satellite
In a related context, Prof. Dr. Lokman Kuzu provided insightful remarks concerning the GÖKTÜRK-3 Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) Satellite. He highlighted the importance of this project within the broader scope of Turkey’s satellite initiatives. The GÖKTÜRK-3 satellite is expected to complement the existing capabilities of its predecessors, focusing on high-resolution earth observation.
Prof. Kuzu emphasized the strategic significance of the GÖKTÜRK-3 project in enhancing Turkey’s surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities. As Turkey continues to invest in indigenous satellite technology, the GÖKTÜRK-3 SAR Satellite is poised to play a crucial role in meeting national security and monitoring needs. His statements reflect a growing confidence in the nation’s ability to independently develop sophisticated space technologies.
