Sheikh Hamdan confirms 2026 launch of Rashid Rover 2
Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and President of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC), has confirmed the UAE’s second lunar mission: the launch of Rashid Rover 2. This mission, in partnership with US-based Firefly Aerospace, is scheduled for 2026 and aims to land on the far side of the Moon. Notably, this will position the UAE as only the second country to attempt such a feat.
The agreement, which Sheikh Hamdan witnessed, highlights the nation’s rising influence in global space exploration. Thanks to the leadership of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the UAE continues to grow as a pioneering force in the sector. Importantly, this mission builds on lessons learned from the Rashid Rover 1, which was lost during a previous lunar landing attempt.
Rashid Rover 2 will be carried aboard Firefly’s Blue Ghost lander, which will ride the Elytra Dark orbital vehicle. It will join Firefly’s Blue Ghost Mission 2, alongside international payloads from NASA, the ESA, and Australia.
Advancing Science Through Global Collaboration
Unlike the near side, the Moon’s far side presents communication and terrain challenges. However, this is precisely where the Rashid 2 Rover will operate. Its primary task will be to evaluate different wheel materials for resistance to lunar dust. This experiment could inform future technologies for space habitats, suits, and vehicles.
Additionally, the rover is equipped with cameras and scientific probes. These instruments will analyze lunar soil, plasma conditions, surface temperatures, and the moon’s photoelectron sheath. As a result, the findings will enhance future lunar missions and support deep space exploration. The rover will also carry a radio transmitter to ensure consistent communication throughout the mission.
According to Salem Humaid AlMarri, Director General of MBRSC, the data from this mission will play a vital role in global lunar research. It will also solidify the UAE’s role in expanding the international space frontier.
A Vision Beyond Earth
Firefly Aerospace CEO Jason Kim emphasized that this collaboration strengthens Artemis Accords partnerships and extends access to the Moon’s remote areas. He added that Firefly is proud to enable such landmark missions through its innovative spacecraft designs.
Meanwhile, MBRSC’s Chairman, Hamad Obaid Al Mansoori, described the initiative as part of the UAE’s long-term vision to drive innovation and international cooperation. MBRSC Vice President Talal Humaid Belhoul Al Falasi echoed that view, stating that this mission exemplifies the UAE’s ability to transform vision into reality.
The Emirates Lunar Mission is a core element of the UAE’s National Space Programme. This strategy not only supports scientific discovery but also aims to inspire future generations and cultivate global partnerships. Through the Rashid 2 mission, the UAE reaffirms its commitment to shaping the future of space exploration.
