The Honorable The Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC) continues to be a major source of inspiration for Emirati missions and projects in the space industry, according to Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Chairman of the Executive Council of Dubai, and President of the MBRSC. The Center is deeply involved in the advancement of the UAE’s technological capabilities, strengthening the National Space Programme and bolstering the nation’s contributions to international space exploration efforts, His Highness continued.
HH Sheikh Hamdan made these statements during an MBRSC Board of Directors meeting that he convened and during which he was informed of the Center’s ambitious future aims and programs.
His Highness went over the strategic plans for the UAE Satellite Program’s satellite development and launch during the meeting. Among these are MBZ-SAT, the most sophisticated satellite in the area, which is scheduled for launch by October of this year, and HCT-SAT 1, an Earth-observation CubeSat that is being developed as part of the Center’s efforts to integrate space technology into the education sector in partnership with Higher Colleges of Technology students, under the knowledgeable supervision of MBRSC engineers.
In light of the UAE’s involvement in the multi-agency initiative, His Highness was also informed of the most recent advancements concerning the Emirates Airlock project, which involves building a science and crew airlock module for the Gateway lunar space station. He was also given an update on the status of the UAE’s most recent lunar exploration project, Rashid Rover 2.
aiming for superiority
“Our strategic vision for creating and implementing cutting-edge technologies and missions is to inspire an entire generation to dream large and set higher goals, not just to achieve new heights in the space industry. By expanding our national capacities and achieving new heights, each project we undertake helps to cement the UAE’s reputation as a leader in space sciences innovation and excellence.
Presenting His Highness were His Excellency Hamad Obaid AlMansoori, Chairman of the MBRSC, and His Excellency Talal Humaid Belhoul Al Falasi, Vice President of the MBRSC. Senator Bill Nelson, the NASA Administrator, gave Sheikh Hamdan a framed memento that featured the flags of the United States and the United Arab Emirates that were flown to the moon during the Artemis 1 lunar flyby mission. The memento was given as a token of appreciation for Sheikh Hamdan’s vision and commitment to strengthening US-UAE space cooperation.
Sheikh Hamdan congratulated UAE astronauts Mohammad AlMulla and Nora AlMatrooshi on their successful completion of the NASA Astronaut Candidate Class training program, which has prepared them for future space missions. She met with the astronauts after the Board meeting. His Highness was informed by astronauts Mohammad and Nora on their two years of intensive training.
The manager of the astronauts office, Astronaut Hazzaa AlMansoori, also gave His Highness an update on the UAE Astronaut Programme and its future goals. The information exchanged focused on the ongoing advancements and upcoming missions that are expected to solidify the UAE’s standing in the international space community.
Mission Transformational
HE “The UAE continues to lead efforts that place it at the forefront of space exploration,” stated Hamad Obaid AlMansoori, “with the support of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE; and His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. Additionally, the UAE follows the directives of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.” MBRSC is still at the center of this revolutionary purpose, moving forward with a distinct vision and a resolute dedication to innovation and quality in all that it does. Our strategic efforts position us as important contributors to the international space community while also enhancing our national capabilities.
HE Salem Humaid AlMarri, Director General, MBRSC, said: “MBRSC, under the guidance of the wise leadership of the UAE and the support of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, continues to innovate and craft new milestones. We are dedicated to creating a collaborative environment that encourages disruptive thinking and technological breakthroughs. By supporting global collaborations and developing state-of-the-art technologies, we aim to contribute significantly to human knowledge and improve quality of life on Earth.”