UAE Joins Nasa’s Lunar Gateway Station, Elevating Global Leadership in Space Exploration
Abu Dhabi, The Gulf Observer: In the presence of UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, the UAE declared its participation in the development of a module on NASA’s Lunar Gateway Station.
Collaborating with the USA, Japan, Canada, and the European Union, the UAE aims to contribute to the creation of the Crew and Science Airlock module on the Lunar Gateway Station, reinforcing its global standing in space science and technology.
During the announcement at Qasr Al Watan in Abu Dhabi, President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan expressed the UAE’s commitment to advancing knowledge and humanity’s progress through international partnerships.
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum emphasized the nation’s exceptional capabilities in the space sector and underscored the groundbreaking initiative for humanity’s return to the Moon, laying the foundation for future Mars missions. The UAE’s participation in this historic project aligns with its aspirations and signifies a significant milestone in the country’s space achievements.
The UAE’s active participation in the Gateway signifies a landmark leap in international space collaboration, positioning the nation as a key leader in the future global space community. Securing a permanent seat and contributing scientifically to the extensive lunar and space exploration program, the UAE will be at the forefront of countries sending astronauts to the Moon. This strategic involvement grants the UAE priority access to valuable scientific and engineering data collected by the station, enriching its knowledge pursuit. The Gateway, designed to support sustained exploration and research in deep space, offers docking ports for various spacecraft, space for extended crew stays, and on-board scientific investigations spanning helio-physics, human health, and life sciences.
Hamad Obaid AlMansoori, Chairman of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC), emphasized the new chapter in the UAE’s space exploration journey, guided by visionary leadership. Salem Humaid Al Marri, Director-General at MBRSC, underscored the UAE’s contribution as a global achievement, showcasing its capacity to actively contribute to space exploration and emphasizing the importance of international cooperation in advancing human presence on the Moon and missions to Mars.
