How Thuraya Works
Thuraya employs three geostationary satellites in their network, providing coverage across Europe, the Middle East, Africa, Asia, and Australia. Known for their GSM compatibility and innovative products like the SatSleeve, Thuraya bridges satellite and terrestrial mobile communications.
The Satellite Constellation
Thuraya-1
The Middle East's first mobile telecommunications satellite and the first Boeing satellite to integrate satellite power with a ground segment and user handsets. Features a single 12.25-meter-aperture reflector for GSM-compatible mobile handsets.
Thuraya-2
Expanded network capacity and coverage. Features redesigned solar arrays to address the fogging problem that affected the original concentrator arrays.
Thuraya-3
Extended network coverage across Asia and Australia. Marked the launch of Thuraya IP, offering fast, portable, and tough satellite broadband modems.
Advanced Technology
On-Board Processing
State-of-the-art digital signal processing creates more than 200 spot beams that can be redirected on-orbit, allowing the system to adapt to business demands in real time.
Direct Routing
Calls are routed directly from one handheld unit to another, or to a terrestrial network, with capacity for 13,750 simultaneous voice circuits.
GSM Compatible
Thuraya phones work with both satellite and terrestrial GSM networks, connected to 365 GSM networks worldwide for seamless roaming.
Data Services
Internet connectivity at approximately 60kbit/s downlink and 15kbit/s uplink, with dedicated broadband products like Thuraya IP.
Ground Segment
The Thuraya ground segment includes terrestrial gateways plus a collocated network operations center and satellite control facility in the United Arab Emirates. This centralized approach ensures consistent service quality and rapid response to any network issues.
Coverage Area
Thuraya provides coverage across 161 countries including Europe, Middle East, North Africa, Central Africa, Asia, and Australia. For coverage in the Americas or polar regions, consider Iridium or Globalstar networks.
Innovative Products
Thuraya is known for innovative products that bridge the gap between satellite and smartphone technology:
- Thuraya X5-Touch: Android-based satellite smartphone with touchscreen interface
- SatSleeve: Converts your smartphone into a satellite phone, pioneering the "bring your own device" concept
- Thuraya IP: Portable satellite broadband terminal for data services
- XT-LITE / XT-PRO: Traditional satellite handsets with rugged design