UAE marks first human spaceflight anniversary
The nation achieved a historic milestone in the first quarter of this year by launching six satellites: Thuraya 4, MBZ-SAT, Al Ain Sat-1, HCT-SAT 1, the second phase of Foresight Constellation, and Etihad-SAT.
This year's anniversary highlights the UAE's emergence as a leading space exploration success story in the Arab and regional spheres. Its accomplishments include groundbreaking projects and the development of a skilled generation of astronauts, administrators, and technical personnel.
Recent milestones include February's agreement between Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC) and Thales Alenia Space. Under the agreement, Thales Alenia Space will be a strategic partner in the development of the Pressure Equalisation Unit of the Gateway Lunar Space Station.
The UAE's participation in this project signifies a major step in its strategy to establish a prominent global presence in space science and technology. The UAE joined the Gateway project in January 2024 alongside the US, Japan, Canada, and the European Union, and announced its intent to send the first Emirati and Arab astronaut to lunar orbit.
Furthermore, the Emirates Mission to the Asteroid Belt has achieved a significant milestone by completing the Critical Design Review (CDR) between 24th and 26th February 2025, paving the way for the assembly, integration, and testing of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Explorer.
In March, MBRSC invited Emirati citizens aged 30-55 with backgrounds in engineering, technology, or healthcare and English proficiency to participate in future analogue studies as part of the UAE Analogue Programme.
These studies aim to investigate the effects of isolation and confinement on human psychology, physiology, and team dynamics.
WAM
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Web Release
a day ago
- Web Release
Amna Al Dahak: Empowering youth is a strategic investment to achieve Sustainable Development Goals and enhance the UAE's global leadership
Her Excellency Dr. Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak, Minister of Climate Change and Environment, affirmed that empowering youth is a strategic investment, crucial for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals and strengthening the UAE's global leadership across all sectors. This commitment is fundamental to the nation's development journey. Her Excellency pointed out that the theme for this year's International Youth Day, 'Local Youth Actions for the SDGs and Beyond', aligns with the UAE's firm belief that achieving major global goals begins with local action, and that youth are the most capable partners for leading this transformation. Her Excellency said: 'Our founding father laid a sound foundation for robust youth development, a legacy carried forward by our wise leadership. Today, youth are not just leaders of the future, but active partners in shaping our present. Our nation invests heavily in empowering Emirati youth with science and knowledge, fostering skills and igniting their innovative spirit. We firmly believe that youth's creativity and original ideas are the engine for driving a diversified, sustainable, and knowledge-based economy.' Her Excellency explained that the Ministry translates this vision into practical programmes aimed at preparing a new generation of national talents capable of leading the nation's journey towards sustainability. Her Excellency said: 'The MUSTADEEM programme, which successfully concluded its first edition, is a prime example of this approach. By providing youth with practical skills in key areas such as sustainable agriculture and environmental protection, we are not just training them, but also establishing a new generation of scientists, innovators, and entrepreneurs who will forge innovative solutions to tackle future challenges'. Her Excellency concluded her statement with a message addressed to the youth: 'My message to every young man and woman in our beloved country is: You are our hope. Every innovative idea you launch, every small project you lead in your community, directly contributes to achieving development goals that transcend the borders of the UAE and reach the entire world. Your nation trusts you deeply, and we are unwavering in our commitment to provide every support, empowering you to lead the journey of change towards a more sustainable and prosperous future for all'.
Zawya
a day ago
- Zawya
Igniting Young Minds: ExxonMobil, Abu Dhabi University and Knowledge Group conclude the ExxonMobil Future STEM Leaders Summer Camp on a high note
Workshops in Drone Engineering, Data Analytics, Robotics, Structural Engineering, Water Treatment, and Plastic Waste Recycling inspired career pathways in high-demand fields. Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates: Abu Dhabi University (ADU) and Knowledge Group concluded the ExxonMobil Future STEM Leaders Summer Camp, a two-week immersive program designed to inspire the UAE's next generation of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) innovators. Held recently at ADU's Abu Dhabi campus, the camp brought together over 35 high-achieving Emirati high school students for an intensive learning journey that blended technical skill-building with industry exposure. The program delivered hands-on workshops in high-demand and future-focused topics including Drone Engineering, Data Analytics and Visualization, Robotics, Structural Engineering, Water Treatment, and Plastic Waste Recycling, alongside career-focused sessions and life-skills development. Mohammed Alamin, President of ExxonMobil UAE, said: "It was truly inspiring to witness the energy, curiosity, and ambition of the students at the ExxonMobil Future STEM Leaders Summer Camp. This program has been a resounding success in sparking a passion for STEM among young Emirati minds, and we are proud to have played a role in shaping their journey toward future careers in science and technology. This program would not have been possible without our long-standing collaboration with Abu Dhabi University and the outstanding support from Knowledge Group in delivering such a meaningful and impactful experience." Professor Ghassan Aouad, Chancellor of Abu Dhabi University, said: " STEM careers are among the fastest-growing fields worldwide, driven by rapid technological change and the UAE's ambition to be a leading hub for innovation. At ADU, we are committed to bridging the gap between academic knowledge and industry needs through future-focused learning experiences. The Future STEM Leaders Summer Camp is more than a program, it is a launchpad that equips Emirati youth with the skills, creativity, and adaptability to excel in tomorrow's high-impact industries. Through strategic collaborations with industry leaders like ExxonMobil and Knowledge Group, we are inspiring and empowering a generation ready to lead, innovate, and transform the future of the UAE and beyond." Dr. Ahmad Badr, CEO of Knowledge Group, said: "We are proud to collaborate with Abu Dhabi University and ExxonMobil to deliver an immersive STEM experience that truly inspires and equips young Emirati talent. This summer camp goes beyond traditional learning by engaging students in practical, real-world projects that ignite their passion and build essential skills for tomorrow's challenges. Programs like this are vital to nurturing a new generation of innovators who will contribute meaningfully to the UAE's community and economy, reinforcing our collective vision for a knowledge-driven future." Building on the strong foundation of collaboration established under the MoU between Exxon Al Khalij Inc. (ExxonMobil) and Abu Dhabi University, the relationship has evolved to include impactful initiatives beyond scholarships, all aimed at supporting the development of the UAE's future leaders. These efforts reflect a shared commitment to advancing STEM education and nurturing Emirati youth in alignment with the nation's strategic vision. About Abu Dhabi University: Abu Dhabi University (ADU) is one of the region's leading academic institutions, translating the UAE Government's National Agenda to deliver internationally accredited academic programs and world-class research. Established in 2003, with campuses across Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, and Dubai, the University serves around 8,700 students from over 100 nationalities. The University is home to five colleges across different disciplines including arts, education, social sciences, business, engineering, health sciences, and law, while offering a diverse range of over 65 undergraduate and graduate programs. According to the Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings 2025, ADU ranks 191 globally. Additionally, it ranks fourth in the UAE and 172nd globally for its research quality, and it is among the top three universities in the UAE, while holding the number one position in the teaching pillar. Additionally, THE Rankings has recognized the University's Business and Economics subject area as number one in the UAE and the Arab region. The University has made an impressive performance in THE Young University Rankings 2024, ranking in the 60th position globally among the world's best universities that are 50 years or younger. Furthermore, the University jumped to 70th place in the prestigious THE Asia University Rankings 2025 and was ranked first in the UAE for graduate employability as per the 2025 Global University Employability Ranking. Parallelly, ADU ranks 391 globally, according to the 2026 edition of the QS World University Rankings, advancing 110 places and 5th in the UAE, up 2 positions from the previous year. ADU continues to empower faculty and students with state-of-the-art resources, facilities, and learning opportunities that foster innovation and support research-based problem-solving. The University maintains strong international collaborations with leading academic institutions and public and private sector organizations, with institutional accreditation from the Western Association of Schools and Colleges' Senior College and University Commission (WASC). About Knowledge Group Knowledge Group is a regional leader, with extensive experience supporting and reinforcing the operational capabilities of the Middle East and North Africa region's workforce and its private and public organisations. Through our solutions in Training & Development, Consulting, Special Projects, and Outsourcing, Knowledge Group Consulting has built a vast range of services to support our clients' individual requirements. We are agile in the way we apply this knowledge and create solutions, utilising the full breadth of our unique experience to craft a bespoke solution that exceeds expectations. Our expert faculty and staff of more than 200 deliver serious industry and regional experience, while we also draw in the best of the world's knowledge through partnership with select international education and consulting companies, alongside more than 400 global associates with specialist expertise. This means we can draw on a vast knowledge base wherever we operate to deliver highly professional solutions for our clients.
Al Etihad
2 days ago
- Al Etihad
Applications now open for 10-week training on space missions, satellites
10 Aug 2025 22:08 SARA ALZAABI (ABU DHABI)Applications are now open for the second cohort of the Space Mission and Satellite Engineering (SMSE) Programme, the UAE Space Agency announced. Delivered in collaboration with EDGE Group's FADA, the 10-week training initiative invites aspiring Emirati space professionals to deepen their technical expertise and help shape the future of the UAE's growing space the SMSE Programme, the UAE Space Agency and its partners seek to build the next generation of satellite engineers, system architects, and space mission be eligible, applicants must be Emirati nationals and hold a bachelor's degree or higher in a STEM field (science, technology, engineering, or mathematics). It is ideal for early-career engineers and researchers in government, private or academic institutions, or current and future entrepreneurs interested in satellite engineering and space programme will take place three days a week (Tuesday–Thursday), 9am to 4pm, starting September 16 until November will be trained through a mixture of classroom-style learning with online interactive sessions, coupled with field visits and networking curriculum will include critical topics such as designing space missions, operationalising a mission, applied space systems engineering approaches, and system verification and part of the programme's Central Case Project (CCP), participants will apply their newly acquired skills to design and implement a real-world satellite project. By the end of the training, they are also expected to have strengthened their space technology capabilities and expanded their professional network through interactions with industry experts during lectures. Applications are open until August 25; however, spots are limited, the UAE Space Agency said.
