The UAE’s most advanced Earth-imaging satellite, MBZ-SAT, will launch on Tuesday, January 14, at 10:49 PM UAE time from Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, the Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC) has announced.
This marks the second satellite entirely developed by Emirati engineers. MBZ-SAT, weighing 700 kg, will launch alongside the student-built CubeSat, HCT-SAT 1, as part of SpaceX’s rideshare program. Originally planned for October 2024, the launch was delayed due to technical issues with SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket. A livestream of the event will be available from 9:30 PM UAE time at live.mbrsc.ae.
The SpaceX rideshare program, introduced in 2019, has enabled the deployment of over 200 satellites, offering a cost-effective alternative to traditional launches.
MBZ-SAT, named after President Sheikh Mohamed, will revolutionize Earth observation with enhanced imaging capabilities, producing ten times more images than current satellites. Meanwhile, HCT-SAT 1 underscores the UAE’s commitment to fostering future space experts.
Salem Humaid Al Marri, Director-General of MBRSC, stated, “We have a team of seven members on-site in the US and another at Mission Control in Dubai, working around the clock to ensure a successful launch.”
The UAE currently operates 10 satellites, with eight more under development. MBZ-SAT underwent rigorous testing in the UAE before being transported to South Korea for environmental assessments. Afterward, it was shipped to SpaceX in the US for final testing.
Marri described the simultaneous launch of these two distinct satellites as a moment of national pride. He emphasized the significance of combining advanced space technology with initiatives like the HCT-SAT program, which involved 50 students from across the UAE. This dual effort, he said, highlights the country’s dedication to building a robust space industry while nurturing local talent.
4o
