logo
NSSA hosts interactive session with Emirati astronauts ahead of Bahrain's "Al Munther" satellite launch

NSSA hosts interactive session with Emirati astronauts ahead of Bahrain's "Al Munther" satellite launch

Biz Bahrain09-03-2025
As Bahrain prepares to launch its 'Al Munther' satellite in March, the National Space Science Agency (NSSA), in collaboration with the Mohammed bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC) in the United Arab Emirates, hosted an interactive virtual session featuring Emirati astronauts Mohammed Al Mulla and Nora Al Matrooshi.
The session engaged more than 1,000 students from ten educational institutions, including universities and public and private schools across Bahrain.
Discussions covered key topics such as the role of space investment in economic development, the space sector's contributions to sustainable development goals, and advancements in satellite technology, particularly the growing shift towards small and nano satellites. The session also highlighted the upcoming launch of Bahrain's Al Munther satellite, which incorporates artificial intelligence for data and image analysis, as well as Bahrain-UAE space cooperation and its impact on innovation and sustainability in the region.
The astronauts emphasised the importance of scientific and technical disciplines for youth aspiring to enter the space sector, underscoring the role of ambition and knowledge in advancing this promising field.
Dr. Mohamed Ibrahim Al Aseeri, CEO of the NSSA, stated that the session aligns with the directives of Lieutenant General His Highness Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa, National Security Advisor, Royal Guard Commander, and Secretary General of the Supreme Defence Council. He noted that the event coincides with the NSSA's preparations for the launch of the Al Munther satellite.
The initiative is part of NSSA's efforts to promote space science awareness among young people and create opportunities for students and enthusiasts to explore new frontiers in the growing space sector.
BNA(R)
Orange background

Try Our AI Features

Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:

Comments

No comments yet...

Related Articles

BSA showcases Arab model for strategic space planning
BSA showcases Arab model for strategic space planning

Daily Tribune

time27-07-2025

  • Daily Tribune

BSA showcases Arab model for strategic space planning

The Bahrain Space Agency (BSA), in collaboration with the UN-affiliated Regional Centre for Space Science and Technology Education for Western Asia, held a workshop on strategic planning for space programmes, highlighting the Bahraini experience as a regional model. The workshop, attended by representatives from several Arab countries, aimed to foster regional cooperation and unify visions in the space sector. Technologies Yaqoob Al Qassab, Space Engineering Specialist, opened the workshop with a presentation on Bahrain's history in utilising space technologies, the national space policy framework, and the implementation mechanism of the agency's 2024–2028 strategic plan. He emphasised success factors including international cooperation, scientific research investment, national capacity building, and the importance of a supportive infrastructure for space projects. Aysha Al Haram, Chief Satellite Design Department at the BSA, presented a case study on translating strategic plans into tangible projects. Success She highlighted the success of Bahrain's joint satellite with the UAE, 'Light-1' (2021), and the national satellite 'Al Munther' (2025), the first Arab satellite to incorporate embedded artificial intelligence technologies. Al Haram emphasised the pivotal role of young Bahraini talent in successfully delivering these projects. She also outlined Bahrain's approach in linking strategic planning with practical space applications, such as using satellite data to monitor environmental challenges and establishing a satellite imagery lab to support decision-making in urban planning.

Bahraini Woman Makes History with UN Space Role
Bahraini Woman Makes History with UN Space Role

Daily Tribune

time29-06-2025

  • Daily Tribune

Bahraini Woman Makes History with UN Space Role

Shaikha Hessa bint Ali Al Khalifa has made history by becoming the first Arab Muslim woman to be appointed as the Second Vice-Chair of the United Nations Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (COPUOS). Her appointment took place during the committee's 68th session in Vienna. Sheikha Hessa represented the Bahrain Space Agency and delivered the Kingdom's speech during the session. Her new role is a major step forward for Arab women in science and leadership roles around the world. In her speech, she shared Bahrain's recent achievements in space. These include launching the country's first satellite, 'Al Munther,' which was built locally to observe the Earth, and completing the second phase of the 'CO₂Sat' project to monitor carbon emissions with UK partners. She also highlighted Bahrain's cooperation with Oman to test artificial intelligence in space, and its involvement in the Arab satellite project '813' to study climate change. She also mentioned Bahrain's participation in three lunar missions. After the session, Sheikha Hessa said her appointment reflects international trust in the role of Arab women in science and decision-making. She added that Bahrain's space agency is committed to peace, innovation, transparency, and sustainability in space, especially for the benefit of future generations. She also confirmed Bahrain's support for UN projects like 'Space for Women' and 'Space for Water,' and its efforts to help developing countries access space technology. Bahrain is also working to reduce space debris and improve safety in space traffic. Her appointment was supported by all member countries and marks an important achievement for Bahrain. It also follows the upgrade of the National Space Science Agency to the Bahrain Space Agency, giving it more strategic responsibilities. COPUOS is the UN's main committee for space exploration and cooperation. Bahrain's role in its leadership is seen as a major success both scientifically and diplomatically.

Roots Expands Beyond Borders
Roots Expands Beyond Borders

Daily Tribune

time27-06-2025

  • Daily Tribune

Roots Expands Beyond Borders

TDT | Manama 'Roots: Artificial Intelligence and the New Generation' is set to cross continents as organisers announced that its next edition will be held in Washington, D.C., marking the summit's entry into the global technology dialogue. Held at the Bahrain International Exhibition and Convention Centre in Sakhir, the latest edition brought together ministers, researchers, students, and thought leaders from across the Gulf and beyond, reflecting Bahrain's emergence as a regional platform for future-facing dialogue in artificial intelligence. Regional ties deepen The event underscored the growing Bahraini-Emirati partnership in areas such as AI, entrepreneurship, digital education, and media, reinforcing ties between Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries on issues of future professions and innovation policy. Bahrain's Minister of Information, H.E. Dr. Ramzan bin Abdullah Al-Nuaimi, attended alongside prominent figures from the UAE and other GCC states. Their presence lent weight to a summit widely praised by participants for its professional execution and forward-looking content. Groundwork for innovation In-depth discussions covered key areas like AI-driven decision-making, smart education, cybersecurity, and the role of technology in transforming traditional careers. Students and researchers showcased proposals linking AI to health, tech, and education, pointing to practical applications for upcoming generations. A diverse institutional lineup included Bahrain's Ministry of Interior, Ministry of Finance, Royal Police Academy, Gulf University, Arab Open University, and Al-Mabarrah Al-Khalifia Foundation, as well as HH Sheikh Nasser Center for Research and Development in AI. The summit also drew participants from regional and international organisations including Emirates Researchers Center, Wahed Platform, Trevox Digital Media, and African investigations network AfricaLeaks. Its widening footprint now sets the stage for the global edition. Organisers said the next 'Roots' summit in Washington would build on Bahrain's success, carrying forward its message of Arab empowerment in the digital era and establishing a platform for deeper global collaboration. The event concluded with recommendations to launch AI training and research initiatives focused on youth and entrepreneurs, developed in coordination with regional and international institutions. 'Roots' is expected to continue serving as an interactive knowledge hub that connects Arab identity and innovation, uniting policymakers, academics, and youth around shared ambitions in the digital age.

DOWNLOAD THE APP

Get Started Now: Download the App

Ready to dive into a world of global content with local flavor? Download Daily8 app today from your preferred app store and start exploring.
app-storeplay-store