MBRSC, TII and ASPIRE Partner to Develop AI-Driven Lunar Navigation
The UAE has taken a major step toward expanding its deep-space exploration capabilities through a new collaboration focused on AI-powered lunar navigation. The partnership supports the co-development of an advanced navigation subsystem intended for future rovers of the Emirates Lunar Mission. Moreover, the announcement at Dubai Airshow 2025 highlights the nation’s continued investment in frontier technologies.
The project centers on building one of the most sophisticated spacecraft subsystems yet developed nationally. It features a radiation-tolerant computer paired with AI-driven software that enables vision-based autonomous mobility on the lunar surface. Additionally, the system is designed to enhance mission reliability and improve the rover’s decision-making in real time.
Using onboard cameras and artificial intelligence, the rover will be able to assess its surroundings, detect obstacles and determine safe driving paths. Furthermore, these capabilities aim to significantly increase mission safety and operational efficiency in the harsh environment of the lunar surface.
Strengthening National Capabilities
The collaboration marks a major milestone in national spacecraft innovation. It strengthens the UAE’s ability to design, test and qualify sovereign lunar technologies, while also adding momentum to the nation’s goal of advancing high-impact space systems. Additionally, the joint effort reinforces long-term plans to develop advanced autonomous solutions for future deep-space missions.
The project also demonstrates the value of unified national technology programs that combine expertise across multiple research entities. As a result, the initiative supports the development of mission-critical capabilities that hold global relevance and contribute to expanding the nation’s presence in frontier technology fields.
Supporting National Space Strategy
The advanced navigation subsystem aligns with the UAE Space Strategy 2030 and the broader national R&D agenda. Moreover, the initiative complements long-term ambitions to create world-class AI-based space technologies and elevate the scientific value of future exploration missions.
The Emirates Lunar Mission is funded by the ICT Fund of the Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority (TDRA), which continues to support advanced research and development across the nation’s technology sectors.
