Sheikh Mohammed And MBRSC Discuss Preparations For Pioneering MBZ-SAT Satellite Launch

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, recently met with the Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC) team at Union House in Dubai. The meeting was attended by H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai, and H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of Dubai Civil Aviation Authority and Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline and Group.

During the gathering, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed highlighted the UAE's significant progress in space science and technology under the leadership of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. He attributed this success to an ambitious vision aimed at positioning the UAE among the leading nations in space exploration and leveraging Emirati talent.

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The UAE Astronaut Programme, launched by President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, is a pioneering initiative in the Arab world. It aims to train Emirati astronauts for scientific research missions in space. This programme is part of the broader UAE National Space Programme designed to foster scientific exploration and inspire youth to pursue careers in science and space technology.

Sheikh Mohammed praised the MBRSC team's efforts in enhancing the UAE's position in space technology. He emphasised the importance of intensifying efforts to achieve more milestones in space technology and other future-shaping fields. These advancements are essential for developing solutions that improve human life quality and address various challenges.

During the meeting, His Highness received updates on MBZ-SAT, the region's most advanced satellite and the second fully developed by an Emirati team. The briefing covered details on its current phase involving environmental testing crucial for ensuring its resilience and functionality in space. The team confirmed that final launch preparations would begin once environmental testing is completed successfully.

The MBZ-SAT is scheduled for launch no earlier than October 2024 on a SpaceX rocket. This satellite represents a significant milestone in the UAE's space ambitions, showcasing their growing capabilities in satellite development.

Inspiring Future Generations

Astronauts Nora Al Matrooshi and Mohammad Al Mulla briefed His Highness on their preparations for future space missions after completing a two-year training programme at NASA. They shared insights into their experiences and readiness for upcoming missions. His Highness encouraged them to strive for excellence in this vital field.

Hamad Obaid Al Mansoori, Chairman of the Board of Directors of MBRSC, expressed gratitude to the leadership for their continuous support. "The vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum inspires us to further strengthen the UAE's leadership in space," he said. He also highlighted their pride in working on MBZ-SAT, named after the President of the UAE.

The meeting was also attended by Mohammad bin Abdullah Al Gergawi, Minister of Cabinet Affairs; Lieutenant General Dhahi Khalfan Tamim, Deputy Chief of Police and Public Security in Dubai; and other senior officials. Their presence underscored the significance of this gathering for advancing UAE’s space ambitions.

The senior officials present included Hamad Obaid Al Mansoori; Amer Al Sayegh Al Ghaferi, Assistant Director-General of Aerospace Engineering Sector at MBRSC; astronaut Nora Al Matrooshi; and astronaut Mohammad Al Mulla. Their contributions are pivotal to enhancing UAE’s standing in global space technology.

The UAE continues to make strides in space exploration with initiatives like MBZ-SAT and programmes aimed at inspiring future generations. These efforts reflect a commitment to achieving excellence and contributing to global advancements in space science.

With inputs from WAM