Dubai: Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, has approved the launch of the MBZ-SAT no earlier than October 2024. This marks a significant step forward for the UAE’s space efforts.
During his visit to the MBRSC headquarters, Sheikh Hamdan was briefed on the most recent developments and future phases of MBZ-SAT, the most advanced satellite in the region and the newest addition to the UAE Satellite Programme. Vice President of MBRSC Talal Humaid Belhoul Al Falasi went with him on the visit.
The development, capabilities, and deployment strategy of the satellite were discussed in the briefing. With ground-breaking initiatives like MBZ-SAT, His Highness expressed confidence in the Center’s ability to raise the Arab region’s profile in the international space industry.
“We are on the brink of a transformative era in space exploration, and the upcoming launch of MBZ-SAT marks a pivotal moment that affirms the UAE’s growing influence as a significant global contributor to the field of space technology,” Sheikh Hamdan said.
“Guided by the vision of our wise leadership, an ambitious agenda and strengthened by strategic partnerships, the UAE’s space sector is poised to extend its reach and enhance its capabilities further,” he noted.
Sheikh Hamdan also went to the clean room housing the MBZ-SAT and approved a plaque with the satellite’s logo on it. He interacted with the satellite development team during the visit and received updates on the technical specifications and goals of MBZ-SAT.
After MBZ-SAT has been developed successfully, the next stage is to test it in its environment to make sure it will survive and work properly in the hostile environment of space. Following the successful completion of the environmental testing, the last stages of launch preparations will begin. The MBZ-SAT will strengthen the UAE’s standing in the international space sector and its dedication to promoting space science and technology. It is planned for launch on a SpaceX rocket no sooner than October 2024.
MBZ-SAT is a technologically advanced product that was entirely designed and constructed by an Emirati engineering team. The advancement of the satellite has been crucial in augmenting the sustainable space economy within the UAE. Over 90 percent of the satellite’s mechanical structures and the majority of its electronic components are manufactured by local enterprises, a development that has greatly accelerated the localization of aerospace production in the area.