MBZ-SAT: UAE launches state-of-the-art Earth satellite

The UAE’s most advanced Earth satellite, MBZ-SAT, developed entirely by a team of Emirati engineers, was successfully launched yesterday, 14 January, from Vandenberg Base in California. The launch took place at 23:09 UAE time and was a significant event for the country, highlighting its achievements in space technology.

MBZ-SAT, weighing 700kg, was originally scheduled to be launched into orbit in October 2024, but this timeline was changed due to technical issues with the SpaceX rocket. As a result, SpaceX’s joint launch programme was chosen to successfully place the satellite into orbit, allowing for a shorter launch. Along with MBZ-SAT, a compact and powerful CubeSat called HCT-SAT 1 travelled into space, which also demonstrates the UAE’s commitment to developing young talent in the field of space research.

In a press conference held on the eve of the event, MBRSC Director Salem Humaid Al Marri said that a team of seven specialists is on the ground in the US and a team is also working in Dubai to ensure the successful launch of the mission. He stressed that MBZ-SAT, named after His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, has unique capabilities for Earth observation and will significantly increase the number of images obtained.

The satellite underwent rigorous scientific tests after assembly in the UAE and was carefully packed for transport. After successfully completing the tests in South Korea, MBZ-SAT was shipped to the US for final checks before being put into orbit.

Al Marri also noted that the simultaneous launch of the two satellites is a proud moment for everyone in the UAE. He stressed the importance of the HCT-SAT programme, which reaches out to students from all emirates and helps develop their skills in the space industry.

Source: Khaleej Times