In a historic step that underscores the UAE’s growing prominence in space exploration, His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, witnessed the signing of an agreement to develop the lander for the Emirates Mission to the Asteroid Belt (EMA). This mission, designed to explore the asteroid Justitia, represents a major milestone in the UAE’s ambitious space program.
Pioneering Collaboration for a Stellar Endeavor
The agreement was signed by His Excellency Dr. Ahmad Belhoul Al Falasi, Chairman of the UAE Space Agency, and His Excellency Faisal Al Bannai, Adviser to the UAE President and representative of the Technology Innovation Institute (TII). Highlighting the UAE’s commitment to collaborative innovation, Sheikh Hamdan remarked, “The agreement reflects the spirit of cooperation among UAE institutions and exemplifies our philosophy of turning challenges into opportunities.”
The EMA mission aligns with the UAE’s vision of becoming a global hub for advanced technology and space exploration. With an overarching goal to inspire future generations, the mission also emphasizes the UAE’s dedication to nurturing Emirati talents and encouraging private-sector participation.
EMA Mission: A Journey Beyond Mars
The Emirates Mission to the Asteroid Belt is a 13-year-long project that includes a six-year spacecraft development phase followed by a seven-year journey covering an astounding 5 billion kilometers. The mission’s centerpiece, the MBR Explorer spacecraft, will conduct close flybys of seven asteroids, culminating in a landing on the enigmatic asteroid Justitia.
Justitia, known for its distinct reddish hue, is believed to have originated in the Kuiper Belt. By studying its surface and composition, scientists aim to unlock secrets about the solar system’s early history and the origins of organic compounds.
Driving Innovation Through Strategic Partnerships
The UAE Space Agency has entrusted TII with the critical task of designing, developing, and testing the EMA lander. Notably, the lander project will actively involve local startups such as 971Space and SADEEM Space Solutions, fostering innovation and expertise within the UAE. This initiative is part of the UAE Space Agency’s broader strategy to empower private enterprises, allocate 50% of mission-related opportunities to startups, and promote economic diversification.
The active participation of academic institutions ensures that the mission will also contribute to the growth of scientific research and development in the UAE. TII’s role in leading the project underscores its technical expertise and the UAE’s capability to spearhead advanced space technologies.
A Bold Vision for Humanity
This mission is more than just a technical achievement; it symbolizes the UAE’s relentless ambition to contribute to humanity’s understanding of the cosmos. Sheikh Hamdan emphasized, “This mission supports our aspiration to transform dreams into achievements that advance humanity. It will inspire future generations in the UAE to explore new frontiers and achieve the impossible.”
The EMA lander, integrated with the MBR Explorer, is a testament to the UAE’s vision of creating a sustainable and innovative space program. It marks a defining moment in the nation’s journey to leave an indelible mark on the global space exploration map.