Turkish firm Fergani launches 5th satellite into orbit

Turkish space technology firm Fergani Space announced Monday that its fifth test satellite, FGN-100-D3, has reached orbit following a launch from California’s Vandenberg Space Force Base aboard SpaceX’s Transporter-16 mission. The 113-kilogram spacecraft separated from the launch vehicle 66 minutes after liftoff and was placed into its target orbit at an altitude of 500 to 520 kilometers. The mission was monitored from Fergani’s Space Observation and Control Center at the Ozdemir Bayraktar National Technology Center in Istanbul.

A leap in domestic space technology

The satellite is distinguished by its communications and navigation payloads, which are now operational in orbit. Unlike its predecessors, FGN-100-D3 carries critical subsystems developed entirely in‑house, including a reaction wheel, magnetic torque rod, magnetometer, inertial measurement unit, and GNSS receiver. An AI‑supported onboard computer further enhances its capabilities. The in‑orbit validation of these domestically produced systems represents a significant step toward Türkiye’s full independence in space technologies.

Building a national GPS constellation

Selcuk Bayraktar, chairman and CTO of Baykar (Fergani’s parent company), celebrated the launch on social media, stating: “FGN-100-D3 -- Fergani's fifth test satellite, distinguished by its communications and navigation capabilities -- has successfully taken its place in space!” Fergani has rapidly expanded its orbital presence since early 2025, having launched its first satellite in January 2025, a second in November 2025, and the world’s first hybrid‑propulsion orbital transfer vehicle later that month. The company now aims to build the Ulugh Beg Global Positioning System, a constellation of more than 100 satellites, within five years using its own resources, while also developing a national launch vehicle.