MBRSC takes center stage at IAC 2023 in Baku, showcasing UAE presence in global space exploration

The Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Center (MBRSC), dedicated to promoting the UAE’s space programme, announced its participation in the 74th edition of the International Astronautical Congress (IAC) 2023, as a Gold Sponsor.

After the United Arab Emirates hosted the 72nd International Astronautical Congress (IAC) 2021, the world’s largest and most prestigious global space event will be held this year in Baku, Azerbaijan.

Under this year’s theme of “Global challenges and opportunities: give space a chance”, the participation of the MBRSC will highlight the notable achievements of UAE astronauts, symbolizing the nation’s growing contribution to space exploration with Sultan AlNeyadi’s six-month mission to the International Space Station (ISS). MBRSC will also showcase its cutting-edge satellite projects, including KhalifaSat and the upcoming MBZ-SAT, as well as the Emirates Lunar Mission’s Rashid Rover. Attendees will also learn about upcoming plans for the Emirates’ long-awaited Lunar Mission 2. The center will further highlight the significant achievements of the Emirates Mars Mission, recognized for its crucial scientific contributions, while shedding light on the Mars 2117 project through which the UAE is aiming. establish the first habitable human settlement on Mars by the year 2117.

Starting today, during a five-day duration of IAC, MBRSC will actively participate in sessions with more than 20 of its delegates, led by Salem AlMarri, Director General, MBRSC, Adnan AlRais, Deputy Director General of Space Exploration and Operations, MBRSC and MBRSC. Astronaut Hazzaa AlMansoori, Director of the Astronaut Office, will explain the UAE’s strong commitment to driving advances in space science and technology. The beginning of the opening ceremony took place today when the President of Azerbaijan, Ilham Heydar Oghlu Aliyev, addressed the audience in the presence of the MBRSC delegation led by HE Salem AlMarri.

This substantial participation not only reflects the visionary zeal of the nation’s leadership, but also embodies its relentless pursuit of innovation and excellence within the growing space sector.

Salem Humaid AlMarri, Director General, MBRSC expressed his opinion on the importance of this event, stating,

“Our vision of elevating the UAE’s position as a leading force in the global space arena has been our guide for the next decade. This meeting is not just an event; It is a strategic milestone on that path. The IAC offers an invaluable platform to promote space exploration and foster international cooperation, perfectly aligning with our long-term objectives. We extend our sincere gratitude to the International Astronautical Federation (IAF) and Azercosmos for hosting this extraordinary event.”

Adnan AlRais will lead discussions on key space-related topics, explore the role of the MBRSC within the global space sector, and shed light on ongoing collaborative initiatives between the MBRSC and the international space community. Additionally, he will moderate a panel titled ‘A collective responsibility in theory and practice: ethical standards for selecting an IAC host’. This panel will address critical issues about the International Astronautical Federation (IAF) and its ability to foster equality among member countries in a dynamic global environment, highlighting space as a harmonizing force around the world.

Joining the dialogue, Astronaut Hazzaa AlMansoori will participate in the technical session of the Astronaut Round Table, where he will share knowledge from his training and experiences, along with the operations carried out on the International Space Station (ISS). Hazzaa plans to brief students at the Azerbaijan Diplomatic Academy (ADA), along with other astronauts on the committee, enriching their understanding with practical knowledge and first-hand experiences. Additionally, Hazzaa will serve as a key panelist at the IAF Global Networking Forum session titled “Popularizing space: meeting the space people.” This session, organized by the IAF Astronaut Administrative Committee, will facilitate discussions on strategies employed in commercial human spaceflight initiatives.

Under AlMarri’s leadership, the Center’s engagement at IAC 2023 will be developed through a comprehensive program. This initiative is meticulously designed to foster collaboration, facilitate knowledge sharing, and reveal exploration opportunities within the international space community.

In addition to showcasing its advanced satellite projects and the notable achievements of UAE astronauts (evidence of the country’s growing expertise in space exploration), the MBRSC stand at the IAC will also highlight collaborations with distinguished universities. Among them, the National Space Science and Technology Center (NSSTC) will be introduced, exemplifying the fruitful synergy between academic institutions and space research efforts. The presence of the MBRSC at the IAC is a strategic way forward for global networking, reaffirming the UAE’s unwavering commitment to the advancement of space exploration on an international scale.

News source: Emirates News Agency