The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has marked a significant milestone in its collaboration with NASA, building upon the successes of previous joint efforts in human spaceflight. In 2019, Hazzaa AlMansoori became the first Emirati to journey to space during a brief mission to the International Space Station (ISS). Following this historic achievement, Sultan AlNeyadi embarked on a six-month mission to the space station in 2023.
Lunar Ambitions Materialise
Upon his return to Earth, AlNeyadi expressed his profound desire to reach the Moon, stating, “‘We want to go to the Moon.’” This aspiration has now evolved into a comprehensive project, featuring the development of an airlock on the Lunar Gateway and preparations for the inaugural Arab astronaut mission to the Moon. AlNeyadi, alongside his colleagues, stands ready to embrace this lunar challenge.
Preparing for Lunar Endeavours
To realise its lunar ambitions, the UAE is set to establish two crucial facilities within its borders. The first facility will be dedicated to astronaut training, ensuring that Emirati spacefarers are equipped with the necessary skills for lunar exploration. Simultaneously, the second facility will function as an operations centre for the lunar station, overseeing and coordinating various aspects of the mission.
Joining International Partners on the Lunar Gateway
In a collaborative effort, the UAE is set to join forces with the United States, Japan, Canada, and the European Union to contribute to NASA’s Lunar Gateway station. This partnership underscores the UAE’s commitment to working alongside the global community in advancing space exploration.
Visionary Leadership Supports Lunar Mission
President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan expressed the country’s determination to work collectively with international partners for the progress of all. Meanwhile, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, emphasised that the lunar space station represents one of humanity’s greatest ambitions in space for the coming decade.
Gateway to the Moon – The Lunar Station’s Role
Nasa’s Lunar Gateway station will play a pivotal role in facilitating lunar exploration, offering space for crew members to live, work, and prepare for surface missions lasting up to 90 days. The station will host a range of scientific investigations, focusing on heliophysics, human health, life sciences, and other crucial aspects of space exploration.
Artemis Accords Pave the Way
Having signed the Artemis Accords in 2020, the UAE joined a select group of nations committed to guiding space exploration cooperation within NASA’s 21st-century lunar exploration program. Through the Artemis initiative, NASA aims to achieve historic milestones, including landing the first woman and the first person of colour on the Moon.
UAE’s latest strides in lunar exploration exemplify its commitment to pushing the boundaries of space exploration and contribute to humanity’s collective journey into the cosmos. The collaboration with NASA and other international partners signifies a new era of global cooperation in the pursuit of ambitious space missions.
