The United Arab Emirates Space Agency (UAESA) was established in 2014 with the aim of promoting the development of the space sector within the UAE and advancing the nation's scientific and technological capabilities. Here are some key points about the agency:
Foundation and Objectives
- Formally established on May 19, 2014, by the United Arab Emirates government.
- Its primary objectives include fostering space exploration, research, and innovation, as well as promoting international cooperation in space science and technology.
- The agency focuses on developing human capital, building national capacity in space technologies, and creating a sustainable space economy in the UAE.
Notable Projects and Missions
- Hope Probe (Al-Amal): Launched in July 2020, this is the UAE's first interplanetary mission to Mars. The Hope Probe successfully entered Mars' orbit in February 2021, making the UAE the first Arab country and the fifth country globally to reach Mars. The probe is designed to study the Martian atmosphere over a Martian year (approximately two Earth years).
- Moon Mission: In 2022, the UAE announced plans for a lunar rover named "Rashid", which is part of the international Artemis Program. The rover was planned to be sent to the Moon in 2023.
International Collaborations
- The UAESA has entered into multiple international partnerships, including with NASA, the European Space Agency, and Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) to facilitate technology transfer, share knowledge, and conduct joint missions.
- These collaborations are aimed at enhancing the UAE's space exploration capabilities and contributing to global space research.
Spaceport and Infrastructure
- The UAESA has been developing a spaceport in Al Ain, Abu Dhabi, known as the Al Ain Spaceport, which will serve as a launch site for future space missions.
Education and Outreach
- The agency has been actively involved in promoting space education and science outreach, organizing workshops, and competitions to engage young people in STEM fields.
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