The Mohammed bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC) concluded its participation in the 77th International Astronautical Congress held in Antalya, Turkey, from October 5 to 9. This event showcased the UAE’s remarkable progress in developing a competitive, knowledge-based space sector supported by innovation and international partnerships.
Launch of the «FAY 3» Initiative
During the conference, MBRSC announced the opening of applications for the «FAY 3» initiative, the third version of its hosting of space payloads programme. This initiative is executed in collaboration with the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs under the «Access to Space for All» framework.
Extended Collaboration with France
The centre also revealed its extended collaboration with the French National Centre for Space Studies (CNES) through a memorandum of understanding. This agreement supports future missions within the UAE’s Lunar Exploration Project and includes contributions from the French side in providing imaging technologies, such as the CASPEX cameras, miniature camera units, and lighting systems. Additionally, it encompasses technical support for camera calibration, image processing, and operational procedures.
Showcasing Achievements at the UAE Space Pavilion
The UAE Space Pavilion served as a platform to showcase the country’s achievements and national programmes, highlighting its development in space exploration, Earth observation, and space technology. Visitors were informed about the objectives of MBRSC’s missions and programmes, with a delegation led by Dr Ahmad Belhoul Al Falasi, Minister of Youth and Chairman of the UAE Space Agency, alongside notable figures such as astronaut Hazzaa AlMansoori, Noor AlMatrushi, and Mohamed AlMulla.
Interactive Exhibits and Networking Opportunities
Exhibits included models of the «Rashid 2» explorer and the «Mohammed bin Zayed Sat», allowing attendees to engage with the latest developments in the UAE’s lunar exploration and Earth observation programs. Throughout the conference, the pavilion welcomed representatives from leading space institutions and international organisations, facilitating exchanges aimed at sharing expertise and discussing sector priorities while exploring new collaboration avenues.
Emirates Astronaut Programme Highlights
The Emirates Astronaut Programme featured prominently during MBRSC’s participation, with astronauts Dr Sultan AlNeyadi, Hazzaa AlMansoori, Noor AlMatrushi, and Mohamed AlMulla leading a session that outlined the programme’s goals, astronaut preparation and training phases, and the UAE’s experiences executing missions aboard the International Space Station. They also addressed the ongoing preparations to qualify the skills and expertise required for future missions.
International Collaboration in Astronaut Training
Astronaut Hazzaa AlMansoori participated in an international specialised session on astronaut training, habitation, and operations related to space missions, where he shared his experiences and highlighted the evolution of the Emirates Astronaut Programme and the country’s preparations for upcoming milestones in manned space exploration.
Discussions on Lunar Exploration and Remote Sensing
Experts from MBRSC engaged in scientific and technical sessions covering the UAE’s lunar exploration mission and remote sensing applications. These interactions not only allowed for knowledge exchange based on the nation’s experience but also contributed to the scientific discussions that took place at the conference.
Collaborative Efforts with Japan
Moreover, MBRSC participated in discussions regarding collaborative space initiatives between the UAE and Japan, further enhancing international relations in the field of space exploration.