UAE Prepares for Historic Launch of MBZ-SAT, the Region’s Most Advanced Satellite

The Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC) announced today that final preparations are underway for the launch of MBZ-SAT, the most advanced satellite in the region.

The announcement was made during a press conference at MBRSC headquarters in Dubai, attended by key figures including Salem Humaid AlMarri, Director General, and Amer AlSayegh AlGhaferi, Project Manager, MBZ-SAT.

MBZ-SAT, named in honour of UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, was first announced in 2020 by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. The satellite, fully developed by Emirati engineers, represents a milestone in the UAE’s ambitious space programme, pushing boundaries in Earth observation and space technology.

Following rigorous environmental testing at the Korea Aerospace Research Institute (KARI), MBZ-SAT was transported to the Vandenberg Space Force Base in California, USA, for final launch preparations. The satellite boasts state-of-the-art capabilities, including image capture precision twice as accurate as its predecessors, a high-resolution camera, and enhanced data processing speeds.

“MBZ-SAT is more than a technological achievement; it is a testament to our nation’s vision and determination to lead in space science,”

said Salem Humaid AlMarri.

Nearly 90% of the satellite’s mechanical components were sourced locally, fostering the UAE’s aerospace ecosystem. Once operational in low Earth orbit, MBZ-SAT will support applications like environmental monitoring, disaster relief, and urban planning.

The satellite’s launch marks another significant milestone for the UAE, solidifying its reputation as a global leader in advanced space technologies and sustainable innovation.

News Source: Emirates News Agency