8 September 2024, Sun |
3:36 AM
H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Crown Prince of Dubai, Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, and President of the Mohammed bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC), has unveiled a comprehensive plan for the future of space missions. Sheikh Hamdan expressed the Center’s unwavering commitment to realizing the UAE’s vision of elevating the Arab region’s standing in the global space sector. This vision includes embarking on ambitious projects aimed at delivering enduring benefits to humanity.
These remarks were made during a meeting of the MBRSC Board of Directors, which was chaired by H.H. Sheikh Hamdan. During this gathering, he received updates on the Center’s ambitious missions and upcoming programs.
“In the upcoming phase of our journey, we are poised to implement extraordinary projects that will expand the horizons of space exploration. The UAE’s rapidly advancing space sector is on track to become a significant global contributor, leveraging our wealth of expertise, knowledge, and strategic partnerships fostered through unique initiatives and missions,” H.H. Sheikh Hamdan stated.
He also emphasized the pivotal role played by the Mohammed bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC) in the UAE’s space program and affirmed their dedication to enhancing the nation’s prominence as a key player in shaping the future of space exploration in line with the leadership’s vision. The ultimate goal is to unearth new data and insights that will not only benefit the UAE but also the entire region and the global community.
“The UAE has set exceptionally high standards for space excellence and will continue launching ambitious missions that align with our leadership’s vision to position our nation as a pioneer and trailblazer in both the region and the world,” he added.
Highlights from the Meeting:
1. Accomplishments: During the meeting, Sheikh Hamdan received updates on MBRSC’s recent achievements, including the success of the longest Arab space mission, led by UAE astronaut Sultan AlNeyadi. This mission featured over 200 experiments, showcasing the UAE’s dedication to space exploration and scientific advancement for the betterment of humanity.
2. UAE Astronaut Program: Discussions included the next steps for the UAE Astronaut Programme, including the training of astronauts Mohammad AlMulla and Nora AlMatrooshi. These astronauts are set to graduate from the program in 2024 and will be ready for space missions.
3. Satellite Projects: H.H. Sheikh Hamdan reviewed the progress of satellite building projects, with a particular focus on the MBZ-SAT. This satellite, set to launch next year, will be the most advanced commercial satellite in the region for high-resolution satellite imagery. It will be the second satellite entirely constructed by Emirati engineers, following KhalifaSAT.
4. Moon Mission: The board discussed the Rashid Rover 2 project, the UAE’s latest mission to the moon, building upon the success of the previous ‘Rashid Rover’ project. This initiative aims to further lunar exploration.
5. Satellite Payload Hosting Initiative: MBRSC and the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA) jointly discussed the satellite Payload Hosting Initiative, which aims to promote space science and technology in developing countries.
Global Collaboration:
Hamad Obaid Al Mansoori, Chairman of the MBRSC Board of Directors, affirmed the Center’s commitment to enhancing the UAE’s role in space exploration. He highlighted their readiness to adapt to the evolving space landscape, underlining the importance of strategic development for the future.
Salem Humaid Al Marri, Director General of MBRSC, emphasized their role as a beacon of innovation in space exploration under H.H. Sheikh Hamdan’s leadership. He stressed their commitment to fostering talent, supporting global collaborations, and introducing cutting-edge technologies to enhance human knowledge and quality of life.
The Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre continues to collaborate with regional companies, contributing to the growth of the local space industry by partnering in projects like the manufacture of components for the MBZ-SAT.
