Sheikh Mohammed Awards Five Emiratis For Their Significant Contributions To The UAE’s Space Sector
In a ceremony at Zaabeel Palace, Dubai, five Emiratis were honoured with Space Medals. This event was part of the 53rd Eid Al Etihad celebrations. His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, and Ruler of Dubai, awarded these medals in recognition of their contributions to the UAE's space sector. The awards highlight the nation's commitment to becoming a leading spacefaring nation.
The ceremony was attended by several dignitaries, including Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai. Also present were Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. Their presence underscored the importance of this recognition for advancing the UAE's space ambitions.
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed praised President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan for his support in advancing the UAE's space sector. He emphasised that leveraging material and scientific resources has been crucial in developing a skilled national workforce. This workforce is instrumental in leading the country's space programme towards new achievements.
Dr. Sultan bin Saif AlNeyadi received the First-Class Space Medal for his role in the longest Arab space mission. He was acknowledged as the first Arab astronaut to conduct a spacewalk and successfully execute numerous scientific experiments during his mission. His achievements mark significant milestones for Arab participation in space exploration.
The First-Class Space Medal was also awarded to Major Hazzaa Ali Al Mansoori, who became the first Emirati and Arab astronaut to reach the International Space Station (ISS). His involvement in 16 scientific experiments with international partners was celebrated as a notable contribution to space research.
Salem Humaid AlMarri, Director General of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC), received the Second-Class Space Medal for establishing and launching the country's astronaut programme. His efforts in training astronauts and overseeing missions like "Zayed Ambition (1)" were pivotal to its success.
Dr. Hanan Sulaiman Al Suwaidi was honoured with the Second-Class Space Medal for her work as an astronaut care specialist. As an Assistant Professor at Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medical Sciences, she monitored astronauts' health during quarantine and missions, ensuring preparedness for various situations.
Engineer Adnan Al-Rais received recognition for managing and overseeing UAE's astronaut programme at MBRSC. His role in training astronauts and supervising "Zayed Ambition (2) Mission" highlighted his significant contributions to advancing UAE's space exploration goals.
The honorees expressed gratitude to UAE leadership for their recognition, which inspires them to excel further in their fields. They are motivated to continue making contributions that make their nation proud on an international stage.
The First-Class Space Medal honours astronauts who advance science and research through missions supporting national goals in exploration. The Second-Class Space Medal recognises professionals contributing directly to astronaut training or significant scientific research enhancing space exploration.
The ceremony concluded with commemorative photos featuring His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid alongside the honorees, capturing this momentous occasion celebrating UAE's strides in space exploration.
With inputs from WAM
Sign in with Google