PHI-1 Satellite Set For Launch In Groundbreaking MBRSC–UNOOSA Partnership

The Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre has announced that PHI-1, a modular satellite platform developed with the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs, is set for launch. This mission, featuring payloads from various international partners, will take off on November 19 aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California.

PHI-1 was designed and assembled in Dubai, marking a significant milestone in the UAE's efforts to expand access to space. The initiative aims to foster global scientific collaboration by allowing countries to test and validate their technologies in orbit. "PHI-1 reflects the UAE’s vision to create opportunities for all," said Amer AlSayegh AlGhaferi from the Centre.

The satellite is a 12U CubeSat weighing up to 20 kilograms, with an operational lifespan of one year. It will conduct technology demonstrations to advance small satellite systems and support research, education, and training in satellite engineering. The mission also highlights the UAE's commitment to a collaborative global space sector.

PHI-1 carries several international payloads. The Bahrain Space Agency’s AMAN payload will test encryption protocols for secure satellite communications. Antarikchya Pratisthan Nepal’s system will evaluate LoRa technology in orbit, aiding hands-on learning for young engineers. Additionally, the Centre’s New-Space Video Camera will capture high-definition images for technology verification.

The Sharjah Academy for Astronomy, Space Sciences and Technology contributes a student-developed PCB to measure temperature and orientation in space. These payloads demonstrate the diverse technological advancements being tested through this mission.

Aarti Holla-Maini from the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs stated, "As we prepare for the launch of PHI-1, we see the strength of genuine international cooperation." This collaboration empowers new actors to bring their ideas into orbit and develop their programmes through UNOOSA’s multilateral framework and the Centre’s technical capabilities.

PHI-1 was entirely developed at the Centre's facilities in Dubai, where partner teams were involved in every stage of design, testing, and preparation. Once deployed into Low Earth Orbit at around 500 kilometres, it will transmit data back to the Centre’s Ground Station for analysis.

This mission supports several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals like Quality Education and Industry Innovation. It underscores the UAE's growing role in building an inclusive global space sector where knowledge is shared widely.

With inputs from WAM