The United Arab Emirates University (UAEU) has announced the successful launch of Al Ain Sat-1, its first satellite.
Al Ain Sat-1 was launched by the National Space Science and Technology Center at UAEU aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket. The center’s ground station has since successfully received the satellite’s first signal.
The satellite will support efforts to enhance the UAE’s capacity for remote sensing and provide precise data to support sustainable development initiatives across various sectors of the nation.
Al Ain Sat-1 is designed to contribute to the UAE’s ambitions in space exploration and the development of advanced technological solutions, aligning with the leadership’s vision to strengthen the nation’s role in space.
The project is part of a series of initiatives by the NSSTC to advance space efforts and empower local and international student teams to develop small satellites.
UAEU milestone
“With its innovative design and advanced technical capabilities, Al Ain Sat-1 will significantly enhance our capacity for remote sensing and provide precise data to support sustainable development initiatives across various sectors of the nation,” said Zaki Anwar Nusseibeh, cultural advisor to the UAE president and chancellor of the UAEU.
Nusseibeh said the launch was a milestone in the university’s efforts to lead in scientific research and space sciences.
He added that it reflects the UAE leadership’s vision to enhance the nation’s role in space exploration and the development of advanced technological solutions.
The Al Ain Sat-1 program was a joint effort between the center and the Geoscience and Remote Sensing Society of the IEEE, with additional support from the National Space Science and Technology Center (NSSTC).
The project is part of a series of initiatives by the NSSTC to strengthen space efforts and empower local and international student teams to develop small satellites.
