UAE: Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Witnesses The Successful Launch Of Advanced MBZ-SAT Satellite
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum witnessed observed the successful launch of MBZ-SAT at the Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC). In a landmark achievement for the UAE's quest in space exploration and high-tech leadership, the MBZ-SAT, the most sophisticated observation satellite of the region, was launched early hours of Wednesday GST.
The launch occurred at Vandenberg Space Force Base in California, USA, aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket. This event marks a pivotal moment for the UAE, showcasing its growing capabilities and ambition in space technology.
This satellite has been named in the honour of UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and marked a significant milestone in the UAE's space journey, showcasing the expertise of Emirati engineers.
The MBZ-SAT, weighing 750 kg and measuring 3m by 5m, represents a major leap in Earth observation technology. It boasts advanced features like high-resolution cameras and improved data transmission rates. The satellite can capture images with twice the precision of earlier models and deliver processed images within two hours.
MBZ-SAT was officially approved for launch last year by Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. The satellite's development involved significant contributions from local industries, with UAE companies producing 90% of its mechanical structures and many electronic components. This collaboration has bolstered the nation's space technology capabilities.
The satellite will support various functions such as environmental monitoring, infrastructure management, and disaster relief. Its integrated scheduling and processing system enhances image generation capacity tenfold, providing valuable data for informed decision-making by local and international entities.
Talal Humaid Belhoul Al Falasi, Vice President, MBRSC, expressed gratitude to the leadership for their unwavering support. He stated, "We extend our deepest gratitude to our leadership for their unwavering support and vision, which have been instrumental in achieving this milestone." He also congratulated the MBRSC team for their dedication and hard work in making this achievement possible.
Hamad Obaid AlMansoori, Chairman, MBRSC, highlighted the UAE's progress in space technology under leadership guidance. He remarked on the nation's commitment to enhancing its global standing in space exploration through continuous missions aimed at advancing technological innovation.
Salem Humaid AlMarri, Director General, MBRSC, noted that MBZ-SAT exemplifies the UAE's exceptional capabilities and technological prowess. He said, "The launch of MBZ-SAT represents a pivotal moment in the UAE's space sector development, showcasing our nation's exceptional capabilities and technological prowess." The satellite meets rigorous international standards with substantial participation from local entities.
Amer AlSayegh AlGhaferi, Project Manager, MBZ-SAT, praised the collaborative efforts of Emirati teams working with local industry partners on MBZ-SAT. He emphasized its potential to revolutionise domains like environmental surveillance and emergency response while driving sustainable development through innovative solutions.
The Mission Control Centre at MBRSC will manage MBZ-SAT operations with specialised teams analysing transmitted data. This initiative strengthens UAE’s competitive edge in global space exploration by transferring vital knowledge to local talent.
With inputs from WAM
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