The Honorable A major turning point in the UAE’s space endeavors has been reached with the official approval of the MBZ-SAT for launch no earlier than October 2024 by Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, and President of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC).
During his visit to the MBRSC headquarters, Sheikh Hamdan was briefed on the most recent developments and next phases of MBZ-SAT, the most advanced satellite in the region and the newest addition to the UAE Satellite Programme. His Excellency Talal Humaid Belhoul Al Falasi, Vice President of MBRSC, accompanied him on the visit.
The development, capabilities, and deployment strategy of the satellite were discussed in the briefing. With ground-breaking initiatives like MBZ-SAT, His Highness expressed confidence in the Center’s ability to raise the Arab region’s profile in the international space industry.
His Highness stated, “The launch of MBZ-SAT is a critical milestone that confirms the UAE’s growing influence as a significant global contributor to the field of space technology. We are on the cusp of a transformative era in space exploration.”
The UAE’s space sector is well-positioned to broaden its scope and improve its capacities thanks to the vision of our astute leadership, an ambitious plan, and smart alliances, His Highness said.
“We are committed to not only advancing our nation’s capacity in space technology but also contributing valuable knowledge and insights that will benefit the wider region and the international community,” he continued, “through our innovative endeavours and the dedicated efforts at the Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre.”
His Highness also went to the clean room housing the MBZ-SAT and approved a plaque with the satellite’s logo on it. He interacted with the team in charge of the satellite’s development during the visit and received updates on its goals and technical specifications.
Future Stages
After MBZ-SAT has been developed successfully, the next stage is to test it in its environment to make sure it will survive and work properly in the hostile environment of space. Following the successful completion of the environmental testing, the last stages of launch preparations will begin. The MBZ-SAT will strengthen the UAE’s standing in the international space sector and its dedication to promoting space science and technology. It is planned for launch on a SpaceX rocket no sooner than October 2024.
From the UAE to the World: MBZ-SAT
MBZ-SAT is a technologically advanced product that was entirely designed and constructed by an Emirati engineering team. The advancement of the satellite has been crucial in augmenting the sustainable space economy within the United Arab Emirates. Through incorporating The advancement of the satellite has been crucial in augmenting the sustainable space economy within the United Arab Emirates. Over 90% of the satellite’s mechanical structures and the majority of its electronic components are manufactured by local enterprises, a development that has greatly accelerated the localization of aerospace production in the area.
Additionally, the MBZ-SAT can take high-resolution photographs with unparalleled clarity, covering areas smaller than one square meter, thanks to being outfitted with one of the most potent cameras ever built in the region. This capability places the United Arab Emirates as a center for high-tech space technology development and innovation, in addition to satisfying the expanding commercial need for high-resolution satellite photos.
Through the use of a sophisticated system, the Center will share collected data with consumers worldwide in real-time. Numerous applications, including mapping and analysis, environmental monitoring, navigation, infrastructure management, and disaster relief activities, can be supported by this imagery solution.
MBZ-SAT will be controlled and seen from the Mission Control Center at MBRSC after it is launched. The cutting-edge Earth observation satellite will add to the UAE’s fleet of operational satellites, further augmenting MBRSC’s capabilities.
Exuberant accomplishment
The Honorable “Today is a landmark moment for the UAE as we move closer to launching MBZ-SAT, under the wise leadership of the UAE and supervision of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum,” stated Hamad Obaid Al Mansoori, Chairman of the MBRSC. This accomplishment not only demonstrates our scientific prowess but also the inventive spirit that propels our country. With our sights set on the stars, our dedication to expanding the realm of what is feasible in
The Honorable “The MBZ-SAT project has flourished under the guidance of HH Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, reflecting our nation’s ambitious drive to pioneer cutting-edge space technologies,” stated Salem Humaid AlMarri, Director General, MBRSC. Our commitment to utilizing space science to its fullest potential for the good of humanity and the advancement of sustainable development on Earth does not waver as we get ready for this historic launch. We are inspiring a new generation of scientists and engineers and enhancing our capacity to tackle tomorrow’s issues by launching a satellite with MBZ-SAT.