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The National
a day ago
- Business
- The National
Japanese company to make second Moon landing attempt
Japan's ispace is preparing to attempt a second Moon landing on Friday, more than two years after its first mission ended in failure moments before touchdown. The private space company is aiming to deliver its Resilience lander safely onto the lunar surface at 4.17am JST (11.17pm GST) on June 6, with a livestream on the company's website scheduled to begin an hour earlier. If successful, it would be a major milestone for ispace and will help validate the role of commercial firms in lunar exploration. The company's spacecraft - which was carrying the UAE's Rashid rover and payload from other countries - crashed on the lunar surface during a landing attempt in 2023. 'Just over two years ago, on April 26, 2023, ispace, operating Hakuto-R Mission 1, became the first private company in the world to attempt a lunar landing," company founder Takeshi Hakamada said on Wednesday. "While the mission achieved significant results, we lost communication with the lander just before touchdown. 'Since that time, we have drawn on the experience, using it as motivation to move forward with resolve. We are now at the dawn of our next attempt to make history." The mission is part of a broader vision by ispace, which is listed on the Tokyo Stock Exchange, to help build what it calls a cislunar economy, in the space between the Earth and the Moon. But the company must first prove that it can land a spacecraft intact, something only a handful of government space agencies and two private firms have achieved to date. Second chance After ispace's 2023 lunar landing attempt, engineers discovered that the Hakuto-R lander had misjudged its altitude. Believing it had landed when it was still in the air, it shut off its engines prematurely, causing it to crash. It was the first attempt by a private company and, despite failing, it provided crucial data for engineers. The Resilience lander is carrying commercial payloads, including the Tenacious rover by the European Space Agency, and aims to demonstrate ispace's capability to offer transportation services to the Moon. A third mission is planned for 2026. Tough field Several private companies have attempted to land on the Moon in recent years. In January 2024, US-based Astrobotic launched its Peregrine lander, but a propellant leak soon after deployment led to mission failure. The following month, Intuitive Machines achieved the first successful private Moon landing with its Odysseus lander, though the spacecraft tipped over after touchdown. In March this year, Texas-based Firefly Aerospace became the first company to complete a fully successful private lunar landing with its Blue Ghost mission, operating on the surface for two weeks. Intuitive Machines followed with Athena, which also reached the Moon but landed on its side, prematurely ending the mission. Creating lunar access While the short-term goal of these missions is proving technical capability, experts say the long-term stakes are much higher. Dr Dimitra Atri, an astrophysicist at New York University Abu Dhabi, said the Moon could serve as a critical hub for future deep space missions. 'Harnessing the water on the Moon to produce oxygen and hydrogen, essential components of rocket fuel, holds the potential to transform lunar mining operations into a 'gas station' for future space missions,' he told The National. 'The Moon could serve as a launching point for spacecraft, offering a cost-effective alternative due to its lower gravity.' Commercial players such as ispace hope to play a leading role by offering regular transport to and from the lunar surface. Anna Hazlett, founder of UAE space advisory firm AzurX, told The National that if companies succeed in establishing access, it would change how space missions are designed. 'A commercial lunar transport service lowers the barrier to entry for space agencies and research institutions,' she said. 'It's a shift from bespoke, typically government-led missions to scalable lunar logistics, much like what SpaceX did for low Earth orbit.' Dr Atri said this business model would also benefit scientists like him. 'If I want to carry out a scientific experiment on the Moon, I will have to design the entire mission, propose it to a space agency, and the launch will be in about a decade from conception,' he said. 'In the case of private companies, I only need to focus on building my experiment and the company will deliver the payload to the Moon rather quickly." Nerve-racking moments ispace has made upgrades to its lander systems, including improved software and navigation tools, for the second landing. Because the Moon has no atmosphere, engineers cannot use parachutes to slow down the spacecraft. Instead it has to use its propulsion system to change velocity and attitude. The unstable terrain of the lunar surface can hamper a safe landing. 'We strongly believe this endeavour and its long-term success will contribute to making life on Earth sustainable for all humanity,' said Mr Hakamada. If the vehicle successfully lands, it will operate on the Moon for two weeks.
Hi Dubai
19-05-2025
- Business
- Hi Dubai
MBRSC Showcases MBZ-SAT to Highlight UAE's Leadership in Space Technology and Local Manufacturing
The Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC) is spotlighting MBZ-SAT, the region's most advanced satellite, at the Make it in the Emirates 2025 event, underlining the UAE's growing prowess in space technology and industrial innovation. Launched on January 14, MBZ-SAT embodies the country's ambition to become a global hub for advanced manufacturing and space exploration. At the event, MBRSC displays a full-scale Qualification Model of MBZ-SAT alongside locally made components such as aluminium honeycomb panels and electronic boxes, all developed in partnership with UAE-based companies. The exhibit also features a model of the Rashid Rover, underscoring the Centre's expanding role in lunar exploration. MBZ-SAT was developed predominantly by Emirati engineers, with 90% of its mechanical parts and significant electronic systems sourced from local firms including Strata, EPI, Rockford Xellerix, HALCON, Falcon, and Emirates Global Aluminium (EGA). These partnerships showcase the strength of the UAE's private sector in delivering cutting-edge aerospace technology. Salem Humaid AlMarri, MBRSC Director-General, emphasized the mission's role in boosting local manufacturing capabilities and fostering a knowledge-based economy driven by innovation. 'MBZ-SAT exemplifies how collaboration between local entities produces world-class results and supports the UAE's vision for sustainable growth,' he said. Notable contributors include EPI and HALCON, subsidiaries of EDGE Group, which provided precision parts and electronic assemblies, and EGA, which supplied solar-powered aluminium for satellite components. Executives from these companies praised the collaboration as a milestone for UAE's industrial ecosystem and global competitiveness. MBRSC's participation at Make it in the Emirates 2025 signals a strategic push to empower national industry, strengthen self-reliance, and position the UAE as a leader in space technology and high-value manufacturing. News Source: Emirates News Agency
Emirates 24/7
18-05-2025
- Business
- Emirates 24/7
MBRSC showcases UAE's space industry capabilities at 'Make it in the Emirates 2025'
As part of its participation at Make it in the Emirates 2025, the Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC) is spotlighting MBZ-SAT, the most advanced satellite in the region, as a unique model for space-driven industrial growth, innovation, and collaboration. The milestone mission, which was launched into space on 14 January this year, highlights the UAE's growing capabilities in cutting-edge satellite technology and stands as a testament to the country's vision of becoming a global hub for advanced manufacturing and space technology. The MBRSC stand at the event showcases a full-scale Qualification Model of MBZ-SAT and locally developed components from MBZ-SAT, including the aluminium honeycomb panel, frame structure, reaction wheel bracket, electronic box, and harness — all developed in close partnership with UAE-based entities. The stand also features a model of the Rashid Rover, further symbolising the Centre's contributions to lunar exploration and the wider space economy. Salem Humaid AlMarri, Director-General, MBRSC, said, 'At MBRSC, we take pride in working alongside local partners to manufacture and integrate advanced components that meet the rigorous standards of space. The development of MBZ-SAT stands as a clear example of how collaboration between local entities can produce world-class results, elevate local manufacturing capabilities, and contribute to a thriving industrial ecosystem. Our participation at Make it in the Emirates reinforces our belief in the power of sovereign capabilities and innovation-driven growth. Through initiatives like these, we are not only shaping the future of space exploration but also actively supporting the UAE's broader vision of building a resilient, knowledge-based economy, rooted in technology, sustainability, and global competitiveness.' MBZ-SAT, fully developed by Emirati engineers, represents a new era for the UAE's space sector, with 90% of its mechanical components and a significant portion of its electronic systems sourced from UAE-based companies. Local entities such as Strata, EPI, Rockford Xellerix, HALCON, Falcon, and Emirates Global Aluminium (EGA) contributed advanced components, expertise, and solutions, demonstrating the strength of the nation's private sector in delivering world-class aerospace technology. The project has driven significant economic growth by creating opportunities for UAE companies to participate in the high-tech manufacturing and space technology sectors. This collaboration has facilitated the transfer of critical knowledge and skills, ensuring that the UAE continues to build a sustainable and innovative aerospace ecosystem. The satellite's development further aligns with the UAE's vision of establishing a diversified knowledge-based economy while setting benchmarks for excellence in the global space sector. EPI and HALCON, subsidiaries of EDGE Group, were instrumental in the development and assembly of critical components for MBZ-SAT. EPI focused on precision engineering, delivering high-quality parts and components, while HALCON specialised in the assembly of printed circuit boards and software-related components. Dr. Mohammed Alahbabi, Senior Advisor for the Space and Cyber Technologies Cluster, EDGE, said, 'EDGE, one of the world's leading advanced technology and defence groups, is immensely proud to contribute to the UAE's national space missions. Starting with the Emirates Mars Mission and more recently with MBZ-SAT, our companies have played a vital role. EPI has provided over 100 high-quality parts and components, while HALCON has made significant contributions in the areas of PCBs and software-related components. These contributions stand as a testament to the advanced technological capabilities and quality standards achieved by the UAE's industrial ecosystem. At EDGE, we remain committed to driving innovation and supporting the advancement of the UAE's space sector in collaboration with the UAE Space Agency, MBRSC, and other national space entities." Ismail Ali Abdulla, Executive Director of UAE Clusters unit within Mubadala's UAE Investments platform and Managing Director of Strata Manufacturing, emphasised that Strata's contribution to the manufacturing of components for MBZ-SAT represents significant step in the 'Make it in the UAE' initiative. This aligns with the vision of focus on advancing local capabilities in aerospace and space industries while fostering global and national partnerships to elevate the UAE's position in the space sector. 'Strata was a key contributor in the development of MBZ-SAT by producing mechanical and flat components and equipping it with high-grade aluminium panels designed to withstand extreme temperatures and radiation in space,' he said. Abdulla also underscored the trust exemplified by MBRSC through its partnership with Strata and other national and local companies that have left their mark on the development of the most advanced satellite in the region. He further added, 'This trust is rooted in the reputation and stature of these companies, which have become benchmarks in manufacturing, innovation, and technological progress. Their contributions stand as a testament to the UAE's visionary leadership and its dedication to achieving economic diversification, strengthening global competitiveness, and cementing the nation's position as a leader in advanced industries.' Meanwhile, EGA had supplied MBRSC with CelestiAL solar aluminium, the world's first aluminium produced using solar power. The metal was formed into critical parts for MBZ-SAT by a local EGA partner company. Abdulnasser Bin Kalban, Chief Executive Officer, EGA, said, 'Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre's use of EGA's CelestiAL solar aluminium for MBZ-SAT shows how sustainable innovation is shaping the future of both space technology and our nation's industrial ecosystem. EGA was the first company in the world to produce aluminium commercially using solar power, significantly reducing emissions. We are proud that EGA's solar aluminium is now heading to the stars.' Falcon Group of Companies also played a key role in the development of several mechanical components for MBZ-SAT, utilising advanced materials to meet the exacting demands of the satellite. Prabhu Badrinathen, CEO, Falcon Group of Companies, said, 'We are proud to partner with the Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre in manufacturing high-quality mechanical precision components right here in the UAE. This collaboration highlights our commitment to excellence and innovation, ensuring that all components meet the stringent standards required for space missions. By leveraging our expertise in precision engineering, we aim to contribute significantly to the UAE's vision of becoming a global leader in space exploration and reinforce the nation's position as a leader in advanced manufacturing.' Rockford Xellerix further played a critical role in the development of embedded systems and wiring solutions for MBZ-SAT, contributing to the mission through their expertise in advanced engineering and precision manufacturing. Speaking about their collaboration with MBRSC, Nauman Arshad, Founder and CTO, Rockford Xellerix, said, 'We are proud to have contributed to the MBZ-SAT mission, undertaking all the wire harnessing for this critical system in collaboration with MBRSC. It is an honour to be part of such a significant programme, one that is propelling the UAE to the forefront of technology and space exploration for the advancement of humankind.' MBRSC's presence at Make it in the Emirates 2025 reflects a broader national drive to position the UAE as a pioneer in high-value, knowledge-based industries. Through strategic partnerships and an innovation-first approach, MBZ-SAT has served as a catalyst for empowering local manufacturing, enhancing self-reliance, and redefining the future of Emirati industry. Follow Emirates 24|7 on Google News.
Al Etihad
18-05-2025
- Business
- Al Etihad
MBRSC showcases UAE's space industry capabilities at 'Make it in the Emirates 2025'
18 May 2025 18:28 DUBAI (ALETIHAD) As part of its participation at Make it in the Emirates 2025, the Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC) is spotlighting MBZ-SAT, the most advanced satellite in the region, as a unique model for space-driven industrial growth, innovation, and milestone mission, which was launched into space on January 14 this year, highlights the UAE's growing capabilities in cutting-edge satellite technology and stands as a testament to the country's vision of becoming a global hub for advanced manufacturing and space MBRSC stand at the event showcases a full-scale Qualification Model of MBZ-SAT and locally developed components from MBZ-SAT, including the aluminium honeycomb panel, frame structure, reaction wheel bracket, electronic box, and harness — all developed in close partnership with UAE-based stand also features a model of the Rashid Rover, further symbolising the Centre's contributions to lunar exploration and the wider space Humaid AlMarri, Director-General, MBRSC, said, 'At MBRSC, we take pride in working alongside local partners to manufacture and integrate advanced components that meet the rigorous standards of space. The development of MBZ-SAT stands as a clear example of how collaboration between local entities can produce world-class results, elevate local manufacturing capabilities, and contribute to a thriving industrial ecosystem. "Our participation at Make it in the Emirates reinforces our belief in the power of sovereign capabilities and innovation-driven growth. Through initiatives like these, we are not only shaping the future of space exploration but also actively supporting the UAE's broader vision of building a resilient, knowledge-based economy, rooted in technology, sustainability, and global competitiveness.'MBZ-SAT, fully developed by Emirati engineers, represents a new era for the UAE's space sector, with 90% of its mechanical components and a significant portion of its electronic systems sourced from UAE-based companies. Local entities such as Strata, EPI, Rockford Xellerix, HALCON, Falcon, and Emirates Global Aluminium (EGA) contributed advanced components, expertise, and solutions, demonstrating the strength of the nation's private sector in delivering world-class aerospace project has driven significant economic growth by creating opportunities for UAE companies to participate in the high-tech manufacturing and space technology sectors. This collaboration has facilitated the transfer of critical knowledge and skills, ensuring that the UAE continues to build a sustainable and innovative aerospace satellite's development further aligns with the UAE's vision of establishing a diversified knowledge-based economy while setting benchmarks for excellence in the global space and HALCON, subsidiaries of EDGE Group, were instrumental in the development and assembly of critical components for MBZ-SAT. EPI focused on precision engineering, delivering high-quality parts and components, while HALCON specialised in the assembly of printed circuit boards and software-related Mohammed Alahbabi, Senior Advisor for the Space and Cyber Technologies Cluster, EDGE, said, 'EDGE, one of the world's leading advanced technology and defence groups, is immensely proud to contribute to the UAE's national space missions. Starting with the Emirates Mars Mission and more recently with MBZ-SAT, our companies have played a vital role. EPI has provided over 100 high-quality parts and components, while HALCON has made significant contributions in the areas of PCBs and software-related components. "These contributions stand as a testament to the advanced technological capabilities and quality standards achieved by the UAE's industrial ecosystem. At EDGE, we remain committed to driving innovation and supporting the advancement of the UAE's space sector in collaboration with the UAE Space Agency, MBRSC, and other national space entities."Ismail Ali Abdulla, Executive Director of UAE Clusters unit within Mubadala's UAE Investments platform and Managing Director of Strata Manufacturing, emphasised that Strata's contribution to the manufacturing of components for MBZ-SAT represents significant step in the 'Make it in the UAE' initiative. This aligns with the vision of focus on advancing local capabilities in aerospace and space industries while fostering global and national partnerships to elevate the UAE's position in the space sector.'Strata was a key contributor in the development of MBZ-SAT by producing mechanical and flat components and equipping it with high-grade aluminium panels designed to withstand extreme temperatures and radiation in space,' he also underscored the trust exemplified by MBRSC through its partnership with Strata and other national and local companies that have left their mark on the development of the most advanced satellite in the further added, 'This trust is rooted in the reputation and stature of these companies, which have become benchmarks in manufacturing, innovation, and technological progress. Their contributions stand as a testament to the UAE's visionary leadership and its dedication to achieving economic diversification, strengthening global competitiveness, and cementing the nation's position as a leader in advanced industries.'Meanwhile, EGA had supplied MBRSC with CelestiAL solar aluminium, the world's first aluminium produced using solar power. The metal was formed into critical parts for MBZ-SAT by a local EGA partner Bin Kalban, Chief Executive Officer, EGA, said, 'Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre's use of EGA's CelestiAL solar aluminium for MBZ-SAT shows how sustainable innovation is shaping the future of both space technology and our nation's industrial ecosystem. EGA was the first company in the world to produce aluminium commercially using solar power, significantly reducing emissions. We are proud that EGA's solar aluminium is now heading to the stars.'Falcon Group of Companies also played a key role in the development of several mechanical components for MBZ-SAT, utilising advanced materials to meet the exacting demands of the Badrinathen, CEO, Falcon Group of Companies, said, 'We are proud to partner with the Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre in manufacturing high-quality mechanical precision components right here in the UAE. This collaboration highlights our commitment to excellence and innovation, ensuring that all components meet the stringent standards required for space missions. By leveraging our expertise in precision engineering, we aim to contribute significantly to the UAE's vision of becoming a global leader in space exploration and reinforce the nation's position as a leader in advanced manufacturing.'Rockford Xellerix further played a critical role in the development of embedded systems and wiring solutions for MBZ-SAT, contributing to the mission through their expertise in advanced engineering and precision about their collaboration with MBRSC, Nauman Arshad, Founder and CTO, Rockford Xellerix, said, 'We are proud to have contributed to the MBZ-SAT mission, undertaking all the wire harnessing for this critical system in collaboration with MBRSC. It is an honour to be part of such a significant programme, one that is propelling the UAE to the forefront of technology and space exploration for the advancement of humankind.' MBRSC's presence at Make it in the Emirates 2025 reflects a broader national drive to position the UAE as a pioneer in high-value, knowledge-based industries. Through strategic partnerships and an innovation-first approach, MBZ-SAT has served as a catalyst for empowering local manufacturing, enhancing self-reliance, and redefining the future of Emirati industry.
Zawya
18-05-2025
- Business
- Zawya
MBRSC showcases UAE's space industry capabilities at Make it in the Emirates 2025
Dubai – UAE: As part of its participation at Make it in the Emirates 2025, the Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC) is spotlighting MBZ-SAT, the most advanced satellite in the region, as a unique model for space-driven industrial growth, innovation, and collaboration. The milestone mission, which was launched into space on 14 January this year, highlights the UAE's growing capabilities in cutting-edge satellite technology and stands as a testament to the country's vision of becoming a global hub for advanced manufacturing and space technology. Make it in the Emirates 2025 is being held from 19-22 May at the ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi, and visitors to the MBRSC stand at the event can view a full-scale Qualification Model of MBZ-SAT and explore locally developed components from MBZ-SAT, including the aluminium honeycomb panel, frame structure, reaction wheel bracket, electronic box, and harness — all developed in close partnership with UAE-based entities. The stand also features a model of the Rashid Rover, further symbolising the Centre's contributions to lunar exploration and the wider space economy. H.E. Salem Humaid AlMarri, Director General, MBRSC, said, 'At MBRSC, we take pride in working alongside local partners to manufacture and integrate advanced components that meet the rigorous standards of space. The development of MBZ-SAT stands as a clear example of how collaboration between local entities can produce world-class results, elevate local manufacturing capabilities, and contribute to a thriving industrial ecosystem. Our participation at Make it in the Emirates reinforces our belief in the power of sovereign capabilities and innovation-driven growth. Through initiatives like these, we are not only shaping the future of space exploration but also actively supporting the UAE's broader vision of building a resilient, knowledge-based economy, rooted in technology, sustainability, and global competitiveness.' Collaboration in Innovation MBZ-SAT, fully developed by Emirati engineers, represents a new era for the UAE's space sector, with 90% of its mechanical components and a significant portion of its electronic systems sourced from UAE-based companies. Local entities such as Strata, EPI, Rockford Xellerix, HALCON, Falcon, and Emirates Global Aluminium (EGA) contributed advanced components, expertise, and solutions, demonstrating the strength of the nation's private sector in delivering world-class aerospace technology. The project has driven significant economic growth by creating opportunities for UAE companies to participate in the high-tech manufacturing and space technology sectors. This collaboration has facilitated the transfer of critical knowledge and skills, ensuring that the UAE continues to build a sustainable and innovative aerospace ecosystem. The satellite's development further aligns with the UAE's vision of establishing a diversified knowledge-based economy while setting benchmarks for excellence in the global space sector. Local partners EPI and HALCON, subsidiaries of EDGE Group, were instrumental in the development and assembly of critical components for MBZ-SAT. EPI focused on precision engineering, delivering high-quality parts and components, while HALCON specialised in the assembly of printed circuit boards and software-related components. H.E. Dr. Mohammed Alahbabi, Senior Advisor for the Space and Cyber Technologies Cluster, EDGE, said, 'EDGE, one of the world's leading advanced technology and defence groups, is immensely proud to contribute to the UAE's national space missions. Starting with the Emirates Mars Mission and more recently with MBZ-SAT, our companies have played a vital role. EPI has provided over 100 high-quality parts and components, while HALCON has made significant contributions in the areas of PCBs and software-related components. These contributions stand as a testament to the advanced technological capabilities and quality standards achieved by the UAE's industrial ecosystem. At EDGE, we remain committed to driving innovation and supporting the advancement of the UAE's space sector in collaboration with the UAE Space Agency, MBRSC, and other national space entities." Ismail Ali Abdulla, Executive Director of UAE Clusters unit within Mubadala's UAE Investments platform and Managing Director of Strata Manufacturing, emphasised that Strata's contribution to the manufacturing of components for MBZ-SAT represents significant step in the 'Make it in the UAE' initiative. This aligns with the vision of focus on advancing local capabilities in aerospace and space industries while fostering global and national partnerships to elevate the UAE's position in the space sector. 'Strata was a key contributor in the development of MBZ-SAT by producing mechanical and flat components and equipping it with high-grade aluminium panels designed to withstand extreme temperatures and radiation in space,' he said. Abdulla also underscored the trust exemplified by MBRSC through its partnership with Strata and other national and local companies that have left their mark on the development of the most advanced satellite in the region. He further added, 'This trust is rooted in the reputation and stature of these companies, which have become benchmarks in manufacturing, innovation, and technological progress. Their contributions stand as a testament to the UAE's visionary leadership and its dedication to achieving economic diversification, strengthening global competitiveness, and cementing the nation's position as a leader in advanced industries.' Meanwhile, EGA had supplied MBRSC with CelestiAL solar aluminium, the world's first aluminium produced using solar power. The metal was formed into critical parts for MBZ-SAT by a local EGA partner company. Abdulnasser Bin Kalban, Chief Executive Officer, EGA, said: 'Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre's use of EGA's CelestiAL solar aluminium for MBZ-SAT shows how sustainable innovation is shaping the future of both space technology and our nation's industrial ecosystem. EGA was the first company in the world to produce aluminium commercially using solar power, significantly reducing emissions. We are proud that EGA's solar aluminium is now heading to the stars.' Falcon Group of Companies also played a key role in the development of several mechanical components for MBZ-SAT, utilising advanced materials to meet the exacting demands of the satellite. Prabhu Badrinathen, CEO, Falcon Group of Companies, said, 'We are proud to partner with the Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre in manufacturing high-quality mechanical precision components right here in the UAE. This collaboration highlights our commitment to excellence and innovation, ensuring that all components meet the stringent standards required for space missions. By leveraging our expertise in precision engineering, we aim to contribute significantly to the UAE's vision of becoming a global leader in space exploration and reinforce the nation's position as a leader in advanced manufacturing.' Rockford Xellerix further played a critical role in the development of embedded systems and wiring solutions for MBZ-SAT, contributing to the mission through their expertise in advanced engineering and precision manufacturing. Speaking about their collaboration with MBRSC, Nauman Arshad, Founder and CTO, Rockford Xellerix, said, 'We are proud to have contributed to the MBZ-SAT mission, undertaking all the wire harnessing for this critical system in collaboration with MBRSC. It is an honour to be part of such a significant programme, one that is propelling the UAE to the forefront of technology and space exploration for the advancement of humankind.' MBRSC's presence at Make it in the Emirates 2025 reflects a broader national drive to position the UAE as a pioneer in high-value, knowledge-based industries. Through strategic partnerships and an innovation-first approach, MBZ-SAT has served as a catalyst for empowering local manufacturing, enhancing self-reliance, and redefining the future of Emirati industry. For Media Queries: MBRSC Media Team - mbrsc@ ABOUT MOHAMMED BIN RASHID SPACE CENTRE (MBSRC): MBRSC is an advanced scientific and technological hub, responsible for making the UAE a world leader in space services and exploration. Starting with a small team of dedicated engineers in 2006, MBRSC has grown into the incubator of the UAE National Space Programme, fostering scientific research, and building a sustainable space sector in the UAE. MBRSC is home to the Satellite Development Programme, UAE Astronaut Programme, and Emirates Lunar Mission, among others. Under its satellite programme, the Centre has built, developed, and operated several Earth observation satellites, including DubaiSat-1; DubaiSat-2; KhalifaSat, the first satellite that was fully built by Emiratis; MBZ-SAT, the most advanced satellite in the region and the recently launched Etihad-SAT, the Centre's first SAR satellite. Under the UAE Astronaut Programme, MBRSC currently has four astronauts, two of who have undertaken missions to the International Space Station, including the longest Arab space mission in history by H.E. Dr. Sultan Saif AlNeyadi.
