His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai and President of the Mohammed bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC), has unveiled the roadmap for upcoming space exploration initiatives in the UAE. According to reports from WAM, Sheikh Hamdan emphasised the centre's dedication to fulfilling the UAE's vision of elevating the Arab region's status as a significant contributor to the global space industry through ambitious projects aimed at delivering lasting advantages to humanity.
His Highness Sheikh Hamdan, was briefed about the centre’s ambitious missions and future programmes.
Commenting on it, His Highness Sheikh Hamdan said, "In the next phase of our journey, we are set to implement exceptional projects that will open new horizons for space exploration. The UAE’s rapidly advancing space sector is poised to evolve into a significant global contributor in the field, drawing from the rich expertise, knowledge and strategic partnerships we have acquired through unique initiatives and missions.”
MBRSC plays a vital role in advancing the UAE's space program and maintains its dedication to bolstering the nation's position as a significant influencer in shaping the future of space exploration, aligning closely with the leadership's visionary objectives.
During the meeting, His Highness Sheikh Hamdan received updates on MBRSC's recent achievements, which included the triumph of the longest Arab space mission by UAE astronaut Sultan Al Neyadi. Additionally, the UAE's collaborations with global space agencies and prominent local and international universities were highlighted. This mission encompassed and included over 200 experiments, underscoring the nation's unwavering dedication to space exploration and scientific endeavours that contribute to the betterment of humanity.
The meeting also covered plans for the UAE Astronaut Programme, including the training of astronauts Mohammad Al Mulla and Nora Al Matrooshi. They have been chosen to undergo training alongside 10 NASA astronauts. Al Mulla and Al Matrooshi are expected to be fully prepared for space missions upon their graduation from the program in 2024.
In addition, His Highness Sheikh Hamdan examined the latest projects related to satellite development. These projects are focused on creating, constructing, and operating advanced earth-monitoring satellites, including the upcoming MBZ-SAT. Set to launch next year, the MBZ-SAT is poised to become the most advanced commercial satellite in the region, particularly in the field of high-resolution satellite imagery.
Furthermore, His Highness Sheikh Hamdan received updates on the ongoing progress of the Rashid Rover 2 project, UAE's most recent lunar mission. This mission was announced by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, back in April 2023.
Commenting on this, His Excellency Hamad Obaid Al Mansoori, Chairman MBRSC Board of Directors, said, “Under the supervision of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan, we will continue to bolster the UAE’s role in space exploration. We will keep pace with the evolving space scene by strategically enhancing our capabilities and preparing for the future. At MBRSC, we do not only aim to nurture UAE innovation and talent, but also establish a global platform for sharing knowledge, expertise and data to build the future of space.”