MBRSC and Italian Space Agency Forge Partnership for Lunar Exploration and Emirates Lunar Mission
In a significant move towards advancing space exploration, the Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC) and the Italian Space Agency (ASI) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collaborate on lunar exploration and the Emirates Lunar Mission (ELM). The agreement, which marks another milestone in the UAE’s ambitious space program, was formalized in the presence of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni.
The agreement was officially signed by Salem Humaid AlMarri, Director General of MBRSC, and Professor Teodoro Valente, President of the Italian Space Agency. This collaboration underscores the growing bilateral cooperation between the UAE and Italy in the field of space research, technology development, and planetary exploration.
Strengthening UAE-Italy Space Relations
The UAE has emerged as a key player in space exploration over the past decade, making significant strides in planetary missions, satellite technology, and human spaceflight. The partnership between MBRSC and ASI will focus on:
- Joint research and development in lunar exploration technologies
- Exchange of scientific data from the Emirates Lunar Mission
- Training programs for Emirati and Italian space professionals
- Potential future collaborations in Moon and Mars exploration
By leveraging Italy’s advanced aerospace engineering expertise and the UAE’s innovative approach to space technology, this partnership is expected to accelerate progress in robotic and human lunar missions.
MBRSC Expands Cooperation with Thales Alenia Space
In addition to its collaboration with ASI, MBRSC has recently expanded its partnerships with other global space organizations. Earlier this month, the center signed an agreement with Thales Alenia Space, a joint venture between French aerospace company Thales Group and Italian space firm Leonardo.
Thales Alenia Space Joins UAE’s Lunar Ambitions
As part of the agreement, Thales Alenia Space has been designated as a strategic partner for the UAE’s role in the Lunar Gateway Space Station project. This initiative is a critical component of NASA’s Artemis program, which aims to establish sustainable human exploration of the Moon and beyond.
Under this partnership:
- The UAE will operate the Pressure Equalisation Unit of the Gateway lunar space station.
- This 10-ton module will play a crucial role in regulating pressure within the station, ensuring a safe environment for astronauts.
- The unit measures 10 meters in length and 4 meters in width, forming part of the larger station, which spans 19 x 20 x 42 meters.
- The UAE will maintain operational control for up to 15 years, with a possibility of extension.
This marks a historic achievement for the UAE, as it secures a permanent seat in one of the most advanced international lunar programs.
UAE to Send First Arab Astronaut to Lunar Orbit
One of the most exciting aspects of this collaboration is the opportunity for the UAE to send its first Arab astronaut to lunar orbit. The Lunar Gateway Space Station will serve as a staging ground for future missions to the Moon’s surface and deep space.
As part of its participation in the Gateway program, the UAE will have priority access to scientific and engineering data gathered by the station. This will allow Emirati scientists to:
- Analyze lunar environmental conditions
- Conduct astronomical and planetary research
- Develop cutting-edge space technologies
The data collected will play a crucial role in shaping future space missions, including possible human settlement on the Moon and Mars.
The Future of UAE’s Space Program
The UAE has rapidly positioned itself as a leader in space exploration, with multiple successful missions, including:
- The Emirates Mars Mission (Hope Probe) – The first interplanetary mission by an Arab nation, which successfully entered Mars’ orbit in 2021.
- Emirates Lunar Mission (ELM) – The UAE’s Rashid Rover, launched in 2022, was a significant step towards robotic lunar exploration.
- Human Spaceflight Program – Emirati astronaut Hazzaa AlMansoori became the first UAE astronaut to fly to space in 2019, while Sultan Al Neyadi completed a historic six-month mission aboard the International Space Station (ISS) in 2023.
The UAE’s involvement in the Lunar Gateway and Artemis program is another bold step forward, reinforcing its long-term commitment to space exploration.
Conclusion: A New Era of International Collaboration
With its partnership with Italy’s ASI and Thales Alenia Space, the UAE is strengthening its global space alliances and contributing to next-generation lunar exploration.
These collaborations will not only advance scientific discovery but also position the UAE as a key player in future Moon and Mars missions. By securing a role in the Lunar Gateway and preparing to send an astronaut into lunar orbit, the UAE is making history in the world of space exploration.
With each milestone, the country is reaffirming its vision of becoming a leading spacefaring nation and inspiring a new generation of scientists, engineers, and explorers.
