MBRSC, TII, And ASPIRE Join Forces To Develop AI Navigation System For Emirates Lunar Mission

The Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC) is collaborating with the Technology Innovation Institute (TII) and ASPIRE, both under Abu Dhabi’s Advanced Technology Research Council. This partnership aims to create an advanced AI-powered navigation system for future Emirates Lunar Mission rovers. The announcement was made at the Dubai Airshow 2025.

This collaboration focuses on developing a sophisticated navigation subsystem. It includes a radiation-resistant computer and AI software, allowing rovers to autonomously navigate the lunar surface. Using onboard cameras, the system will help rovers identify and avoid obstacles, enhancing safety and efficiency in challenging space environments.

Dr. Hamad AlMarzooqi, Project Manager of the Emirates Lunar Mission at MBRSC, stated: "MBRSC’s collaboration with TII and ASPIRE is a significant step forward in our commitment to building technologies that elevate the scientific value and safety of future missions. Enabling a rover to perceive and interpret its surroundings in real time is a capability that will define the next phase of exploration on the lunar surface. It strengthens our long-term vision for contributing meaningful, high-impact systems to international deep-space efforts."

Dr. Elias Tsoutsanis from TII highlighted the importance of this project for UAE's space technology development. He said: "This collaboration marks a major milestone in strengthening the UAE’s ability to design, test, and qualify sovereign spacecraft subsystems. By advancing AI-driven, vision-based autonomy, we are contributing core technologies that will support future lunar and interplanetary missions. This project reflects TII’s commitment to building national deep-space capabilities and strengthening the UAE’s position as a developer of advanced space technologies."

The initiative aligns with UAE's broader goal of developing AI-based space exploration technologies. It underscores MBRSC and TII's roles in fostering sovereign capabilities consistent with the UAE Space Strategy 2030 and Advanced Technology Research Council’s R&D objectives.

National Ambitions in Space Exploration

Andrew Strefford from ASPIRE commented on their role: "ASPIRE is committed to enabling mission-critical technologies that advance the UAE’s leadership in deep-space exploration. Our collaboration with MBRSC and TII on the navigation subsystem demonstrates the strength of national partnerships in delivering high-impact, sovereign capabilities with global relevance. This programme embodies our mission to empower the UAE’s scientific and engineering talent and ensure that the country continues to lead in frontier technology development."

This initiative highlights UAE's expertise in designing complex lunar technologies. The Emirates Lunar Mission receives funding from ICT Fund by Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority (TDRA), supporting research across ICT sectors.

The project not only enhances UAE's technological prowess but also positions it as a leader in developing cutting-edge space exploration systems globally.

With inputs from WAM