Hamdan bin Mohammed Chairs MBRSC Board Meeting

Photo : X/@DXBMediaOffice

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), recently chaired a meeting of the MBRSC Board of Directors. During this meeting, he reinforced the Centre's vital role in advancing Emirati space missions and projects, emphasizing that their strategic vision goes beyond achieving new milestones in the space sector. "Our strategic vision for developing and launching advanced technology and missions is not merely about reaching new heights in the space sector, but about inspiring a whole generation to dream big and aim higher. Every new project we launch enhances our national capabilities, pushing the boundaries of what we can achieve and ensuring that the UAE remains synonymous with innovation and excellence in space sciences," he remarked.

The meeting focused on reviewing the strategic plans for the UAE Satellite Programme, which includes the development and launch of several advanced satellites. Among these is MBZ-SAT, the most sophisticated satellite in the region, scheduled for launch in October this year. Another significant project is HCT-SAT 1, an Earth-observation CubeSat being developed in collaboration with students from the Higher Colleges of Technology, guided by MBRSC engineers. This initiative integrates space technology into the education sector, fostering a hands-on learning environment for students.

Stay informed with the latest news. Follow DXB News Network on WhatsApp Channel 

Sheikh Hamdan also received updates on the Emirates Airlock project, a crew and science airlock module that will be part of the Gateway lunar space station, highlighting the UAE’s involvement in this international collaboration. Additionally, he was briefed on the progress of the Rashid Rover 2 mission, which aims to further the UAE’s lunar exploration efforts.

His Excellency Talal Humaid Belhoul Al Falasi, Vice President of MBRSC, and His Excellency Hamad Obaid AlMansoori, Chairman of MBRSC, presented Sheikh Hamdan with a framed souvenir from Senator Bill Nelson, NASA Administrator. The souvenir, which included the flags of the UAE and USA that were carried to the Moon during the Artemis 1 lunar flyby mission, was a token of appreciation for Sheikh Hamdan's leadership in enhancing space cooperation between the UAE and the USA.

Following the Board meeting, Sheikh Hamdan met with UAE astronauts Mohammad AlMulla and Nora AlMatrooshi, who recently graduated from the NASA Astronaut Candidate Class training programme. His Highness congratulated them on their achievement and discussed the extensive training they underwent over the past two years, preparing them for future space missions. Astronaut Hazzaa AlMansoori, Astronauts Office Manager, provided further updates on the UAE Astronaut Programme and its future plans, underscoring the UAE’s growing presence in the global space community.

HE Hamad Obaid AlMansoori highlighted the UAE's commitment to leading space exploration efforts under the guidance of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, and His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, and Ruler of Dubai. He stated, "MBRSC remains at the heart of this transformative mission, driving forward with a clear vision and unwavering commitment to innovation and excellence in all its endeavours. Our strategic initiatives not only enhance our national capabilities but also position us as key contributors to the global space community."

HE Salem Humaid AlMarri, Director General of MBRSC, added, "MBRSC, under the guidance of the wise leadership of the UAE and the support of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, continues to innovate and craft new milestones. We are dedicated to creating a collaborative environment that encourages disruptive thinking and technological breakthroughs. By supporting global collaborations and developing state-of-the-art technologies, we aim to contribute significantly to human knowledge and improve quality of life on Earth."