Sharjah: The Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC) is joining forces with the Sharjah Government Media Bureau, Sharjah Academy of Astronomy, Space Sciences & Technology (SAAST), and the University of Sharjah to host an upcoming event called “A Call from Space.” Scheduled for 6th July 2023, the gathering will offer attendees a unique opportunity to interact directly with Mr. Sultan Al Neyadi, who is currently on the International Space Station (ISS), participating in the longest-ever Arab space mission.
The event will take place at the Sharjah Academy of Astronomy, Space Sciences & Technology, starting at 1:20 PM. Doors will open at 12:20 PM and close at 1:10 PM. This installment of the “A Call from Space” series follows seven previous sessions, which have attracted over 7,500 attendees. Participants have had the chance to catch a glimpse into Mr. AlNeyadi’s life on the ISS and engage in conversations with him.
Mr. AlNeyadi has spent more than four months in space, conducting various scientific experiments and performing maintenance tasks on the ISS. Recently, he conducted an air sampling test on the Dragon CRS-28 to ensure the spacecraft’s air quality remains uncontaminated. He has also been involved in the Ring-Sheared Drop experiment, conducted in the Microgravity Science Glovebox, which may contribute to advancements in understanding neurodegenerative diseases and the development of advanced materials.
Additionally, Mr. AlNeyadi has been using Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) to capture images of the retina, examining the impact of microgravity on eyes during long-duration space missions. He has also been performing maintenance tasks at different locations on the ISS.
The UAE Astronaut Program is a significant initiative managed by MBRSC under the UAE’s National Space Program. It is funded by the ICT Fund of the Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority (TDRA), aiming to support research and development in the UAE’s ICT sector and elevate the country’s global presence.