Partnership to integrate Orbitworks’ Altair Earth observation constellation with IRH Technology’s AI powered mineral exploration platform for next-generation mineral exploration use cases
ABU DHABI, UAE; 6 May 2026: Orbitworks,the UAE commercial satellite constellation production and operation company and IRH Technology, a global technology leader with platforms and product suites for AI-powered mineral exploration & mining, announced the signing of a Strategic Agreement establishing a joint framework for mineral exploration using satellite-derived Earth observation data. The agreement was signed on May 6th, 2026 at Make It In The Emirates 2026, the UAE’s flagship manufacturing and industrial investment forum.
Under the agreement, the Parties will jointly define and evaluate a concrete use case integrating high-frequency Earth observation imagery from Orbitworks’ Altair constellation with IRH Technology’s platform for AI powered analytics engine purpose built for mineral exploration and geospatial intelligence. The collaboration aims to unlock new commercial pathways in critical minerals, resource mapping, and sub-surface intelligence by combining the precision of space-based sensing with the analytical depth of machine learning.
Altair is a 10-satellite, multi-sensor Earth observation constellation equipped with Optical, Infrared, Thermal, and RF sensing capabilities, with onboard AI processing powered by Nvidia GPUs. This architecture enables near real-time data delivery combining frequent revisit rates with on-orbit processing to dramatically reduce the time between collection and actionable intelligence.
IRH Technology operates an AI and remote sensing platform that accelerates mineral exploration. By integrating multi source satellite data, geological datasets, and advanced AI models within a unified analytical environment, it enables the rapid identification and prioritisation of high-potential mineral targets. Built to scale across geographies and mineral systems, the platform has been deployed across more than 2,200 projects globally, processing over 5.5 million km².
Together, these capabilities shift exploration from fragmented data collection to AI driven decision making significantly improving targeting precision, reducing exploration risk, and accelerating the discovery of economically viable deposits.
Dr. Hamdullah Mohib, Chief Executive Officer, Orbitworks, said:
“The Altair constellation is designed to deliver the kind of persistent, high-resolution Earth observation data that industries like mining and resource exploration have long needed from space. Our agreement with IRH Technology marks an important step in translating that capability into real-world analytical value.”
The agreement reflects the UAE’s growing ambition to position its space industrial base as a driver of economic diversification. By anchoring a globally relevant mineral intelligence use case to Emirati satellite infrastructure, the partnership demonstrates how the UAE’s commercial space sector can contribute directly to the clean energy transition and the global race to secure critical mineral supply chains.
Ali Rashed Alrashdi, Group CEO, International Resources Holding, said:
“Mineral exploration is entering a new era, and IRH Technology is leading that transformation. Through our partnership with Orbitworks, we combine advanced satellite infrastructure with our AI-driven platform to deliver faster, actionable sub-surface insights that redefine how minerals are discovered and developed.
Securing critical minerals is no longer just a commercial opportunity, it is a matter of sovereign capability. IRH Technology is proud to be at the forefront of this shift, leveraging UAE-built infrastructure and expertise to unlock resources essential to our nation’s industrial ambitions”
The Parties will appoint dedicated representatives to oversee coordination, with periodic progress reviews planned throughout the initial two-year term. Any commercial agreements arising from the joint use case will be formalised through separate definitive arrangements.
About Orbitworks
Orbitworks Satellites Manufacturing – L.L.C. – S.P.C. is a UAE-based satellite manufacturing and space services company focused on developing cost-effective, high-performance space systems. Orbitworks enables broader access to space through integrated satellite platforms, constellations, and Earth Observation services tailored to evolving mission needs.
About IRH Technology
IRH Technology SPV RSC LTD, a subsidiary of International Resources Holding (IRH) based in Abu Dhabi, UAE, delivers a next-generation unified AI powered exploration and mining platform designed to transform the entire mine to market value chain. Its integrated product suite combines advanced AI, IoT, real-time analytics, and automation to enable smarter decision-making across exploration and mining operations. Through these capabilities, IRH Technology is driving improved efficiency, enhanced sustainability, and higher safety standards for mining operations worldwide.
Katherine Raso
Head of Communications International Resources Holding
Orbitworks
