UAE announces planning for the "Emirates Gateway" Lunar Station Pressure Unit
Engineer Salem Humaid Al Marri, Director General of the Mohammed bin Rashid Space Centre, announced that the centre has initiated the planning phase for the pressure equalisation unit in the "Emirates Gateway" lunar station project.
This phase is projected to continue until year-end, with construction partnerships established with various international space agencies. Manufacturing is slated to commence next year, with the UAE, through the centre, undertaking the management of the unit for a 15-year duration.
These developments unfolded during a media visit organised by the UAE Government Media Office within the Ministry of Cabinet Affairs to the Mohammed bin Rashid Space Centre in Dubai. The visit was prompted by an invitation from Lieutenant General His Highness Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Interior, during his participation in the World Government Summit 2024. During the summit, His Highness expressed gratitude to national institutions and leaders, including the Mohammed bin Rashid Space Centre, for their contributions to progress under wise leadership.
The Mohammed bin Zayed Sat (MBZ-Sat) satellite, built at the Mohammed bin Rashid Space Centre, was detailed for the media present during its building phases. The most sophisticated civilian satellite in the area for high-resolution space photography is expected to be launched this year and named after it. Thanks to its automated imaging system, MBZ-Sat can provide high-resolution photos that can be used for detailed observation in areas smaller than one square metre, which is intended to suit commercial demands.
During the visit, the media learned about the initial steps taken by the centre's team to develop the pressure equalisation unit "Emirates Gateway" in the lunar space station project, following the UAE's announcement of participation in the endeavor. Engineer Salem Humaid Al Marri emphasised that participation in the lunar space station will pave the way for an Emirati astronaut's journey to the moon's surface. This collaboration with NASA will see the UAE manage the pressure equalisation unit for 15 years in exchange for a seat for an Emirati astronaut aboard the lunar space station.
Furthermore, the media gained insights into satellite control, image services, analysis, and data provision from the centre's team. The visit also highlighted the achievements of various satellite projects, including "DubaiSat 1," "DubaiSat 2," "Naif 1," and "KhalifaSat," as well as the accomplishments of the "Hope Probe" and the UAE's lunar exploration project "Rashid 2." Additionally, the Emirates Astronaut Programme was showcased, emphasising the UAE's commitment to fostering space exploration capabilities and scientific endeavours on a global scale.
