Latest news with #SalemHumaidAlMarri
Broadcast Pro
25-05-2025
- Science
- Broadcast Pro
Firefly Aerospace adds UAEs Rashid 2 Rover to Blue Ghost mission
The Rashid 2 Rover will join Blue Ghost Mission 2, in 2026, which will be Firefly Aerospaces second lunar mission, alongside payloads from Australia, the European Space Agency and NASA. Firefly Aerospace has announced a new agreement with the United Arab Emirates' Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC) to deliver the Emirates Lunar Missions Rashid 2 Rover to the far side of the Moon on Fireflys Blue Ghost lander. The Rashid 2 Rover will join Fireflys second lunar mission in 2026 in addition to payloads from Australia, the European Space Agency, and NASA as part of the Commercial Lunar Payload Services (CLPS) initiative. Jason Kim, CEO of Firefly Aerospace, said: 'On the heels of Fireflys flawless Moon landing and operations, our team is looking forward to collaborating with the UAE and further expanding our representation of Artemis Accords nations on this groundbreaking mission to the far side of the Moon. Were honoured to support the international space community with our versatile Blue Ghost lander and Elytra spacecraft that can stack together to provide unique access to both lunar orbit and the lunar surface.' The Rashid 2 Rover will demonstrate lunar surface mobility on the far side of the Moon and utilise various materials on its wheels to evaluate their durability when exposed to lunar dust. The data collected will help guide the development of future lunar technologies, such as spacesuits, habitats, and other critical infrastructure. Utilising multiple cameras and probes, the rover will also study the Moons plasma, geology, and thermal conditions in support of future in-situ resource utilisation. H.E. Salem Humaid AlMarri, Director General of MBRSC, added: 'The strategic agreement signed with Firefly Aerospace marks a significant advancement in the UAEs growing role in shaping the future of lunar exploration. Through the Emirates Lunar Missions Rashid 2 Rover, the UAE will become one of the few nations to explore the far side of the Moon. The mission will deliver valuable scientific data on the lunar surface, plasma environment, and dust behaviorcontributing to global knowledge and supporting future lunar infrastructure development. As we prepare for this historic milestone, we remain dedicated to expanding the UAEs contributions to humanitys long-term presence in space.' During Blue Ghost Mission 2 operations, Fireflys Elytra vehicle will first deploy the Blue Ghost lander and the European Space Agencys Lunar Pathfinder satellite in lunar orbit. Blue Ghost will then touch down on the far side of the Moon to deliver the UAEs Rashid 2 Rover, Australias Fleet Space SPIDER payload, and NASAs LuSEE-Night radio telescope and User Terminal. Elytra will remain in lunar orbit to provide long-haul communications and enable radio frequency calibration services for LuSEE-Night. The payloads flying on this international mission will advance the growing lunar ecosystem by searching for lunar resources, enhancing surface mobility on the Moon, improving lunar communications, and uncovering new insights about the origins of the universe. Firefly has already begun qualifying and assembling flight hardware for Blue Ghost Mission 2, which will follow Fireflys first lunar mission that completed the first fully successful commercial Moon landing on March 2 and completed 14 days of surface operations on March 16, marking the longer commercial operations on the Moon to date.
Hi Dubai
23-05-2025
- Science
- Hi Dubai
UAE Secures Firefly Aerospace Deal to Land Rashid 2 Rover on Far Side of the Moon
Dubai has taken a bold step toward deep space exploration with the signing of a strategic agreement between the Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC) and US-based Firefly Aerospace. Under the deal, Firefly will provide the lunar lander that will deploy the UAE's Rashid 2 Rover to the far side of the Moon as part of the Emirates Lunar Mission in 2026. The agreement was signed at Emirates Towers in the presence of H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and President of MBRSC, who called the mission a testament to the UAE's commitment to global scientific advancement. 'Our objective is not only to reach new destinations in space but to generate meaningful knowledge that contributes to humanity's understanding of the universe,' he said. Rashid 2 will fly aboard Firefly's Blue Ghost Mission 2, mounted on the Elytra Dark orbital vehicle. The mission will also carry payloads from NASA, the European Space Agency, and Australia, placing the UAE among a select group of nations exploring the Moon's far side. Equipped with scientific probes and high-resolution cameras, the rover will study lunar soil, geology, and plasma conditions, and test the durability of materials against lunar dust—critical data for future missions. It will also carry a radio transmitter to support inter-payload communication. MBRSC leaders highlighted the mission's role in reinforcing the UAE's long-term space ambitions. 'This is a leap forward for our scientific goals and global partnerships,' said Salem Humaid AlMarri, Director General of MBRSC. The mission marks a significant stride in the UAE's growing influence in the international space community. News Source: Emirates News Agency
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.
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.
