In a historic event for the UAE, the Hope Probe has successfully managed to enter the Mars Orbit at 7.42pm on 9 February after a critical phase. This is the first Arab interplanetary mission and signifies the celebration of the UAE's golden jubilee.
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and the Ruler of Dubai said, "The Hope Probe's historical arrival to Mars is the greatest celebration of the 50th anniversary of our country. It sets the beginning of the next 50 years with boundless ambitions and dreams. Our accomplishments will be even bigger and greater."
The whole event was live-streamed on the Emirates Mars Mission website and ground control received the first signal in Al Khawaneej from the Hope Probe at 8.08pm.
The UAE is the fifth country in the world to go to Mars and the first picture of the Martian atmosphere will arrive within this week.
The picture of the Mars atmosphere will be shared with research centres around the world.
The Hope Probe's mission will continue till April 2023 and might extend for another two years.
His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Chairman of the Executive Council and Chairman of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre said, "The Hope Probe's historic journey to Mars is a significant Arab and Emirati achievement. The Emirates Mars Mission drafts a new chapter in the UAE's record of achievements in the space science sector and supports the efforts of our country to build a sustainable knowledge-based economy driven by advanced technologies."