The MBRSC is sending MBZ-SAT to space through SpaceX's rideshare programme.
The Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC) has confirmed that final preparations are underway for the launch of MBZ-SAT, the most advanced Earth-observation satellite in the region. The announcement was made during a press conference at MBRSCs Dubai headquarters, attended by H.E. Salem Humaid AlMarri, Director General; Amer AlSayegh AlGhaferi, Project Manager; Hessa Ali Hussain, Deputy Project Manager; and the satellites development team.
Initially announced by H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, in 2020, MBZ-SAT is named in honour of H.H. Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE. The project was officially approved for launch last year by H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and President of MBRSC.
After being fully developed in the UAE by Emirati engineers, MBZ-SAT underwent comprehensive environmental testing at the Korea Aerospace Research Institute (KARI) in South Korea. These tests, which included Thermal Vacuum (TVAC), Vibration, Acoustic and Mass Properties evaluations, ensured the satellites resilience under the harsh conditions of space. It was then transported to Vandenberg Space Force Base in California, USA, for launch preparations.
Salem Humaid AlMarri said: As we approach closer to the launch of MBZ-SAT, this project reflects the UAEs unwavering vision for progress and innovation under our wise leadership. MBZ-SAT represents more than a technological achievement; it is a testament to our nations determination to lead in space science and contribute meaningfully to the global space community. Through every advancement we are empowering future generations to dream bigger and reach farther in the pursuit of excellence while harnessing the full potential of space science to benefit the nation, region and support sustainable development on Earth.
MBZ-SAT, fully developed by a team of Emirati engineers at MBRSC, represents a transformative step in the UAE’s journey in space exploration. The state-of-the-art satellite embodies the nation’s commitment to leveraging advanced space technologies to drive sustainable development and global collaboration.
The satellite, equipped with cutting-edge capabilities, sets a new standard in Earth observation. MBZ-SAT will offer image capture accuracy that is twice as precise as its predecessors and generates 10 times more imagery, due to its automated scheduling and processing system. These images will be processed and delivered in under two hours and provide insights for applications such as environmental monitoring, disaster relief, and infrastructure management, enabling decision-makers to act swiftly and effectively.
The development of MBZ-SAT has also catalysed economic growth in the UAE by fostering a robust local aerospace ecosystem. Nearly 90% of the satellites mechanical structures and a significant portion of its electronic modules were produced in collaboration with UAE-based companies such as Strata, EPI, Rockford Xellerix, Halcon, Falcon and EGA. This partnership-driven approach not only enhances the UAEs capabilities in space technology but also ensures the transfer of critical knowledge and skills to local talent, securing a competitive edge for the nation in the global space exploration journey.
Amer AlSayegh AlGhaferi, Project Manager, MBZ-SAT, added: “As we finalise preparations for the launch of MBZ-SAT, the satellite stands as a benchmark in technical innovation and precision engineering, spearheaded by our dedicated team from the Centre. Designed with one of the most advanced imaging systems of its kind, MBZ-SAT is engineered to deliver high-resolution data with unprecedented accuracy and speed. MBZ-SAT is a leap forward for Earth observation, promising applications that support sectors ranging from environmental monitoring to urban planning and disaster management.”
Once operational in low Earth orbit, MBZ-SAT will be managed from the Mission Control Centre at MBRSC, with teams monitoring its operations and analysing data transmitted back to Earth.
