Hamdan briefed on Emirates Lunar Mission
DUBAI: Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai Crown Prince, and President of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre ( MBRSC) said that the UAE continues to strengthen its global standing in the field of space exploration by launching exceptional projects that help create a brighter future for the region and a beter quality of life for its people.
Sheikh Hamdan made these remarks during a visit to the MBRSC headquarters, during which he reviewed the MBRSC’S new 2021-2031 strategy, including its key objectives and projects. The strategy aims to realise the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, for the UAE’S contributions to space science and research and consolidate the country’s international position in this sector.
Sheikh Hamdan was briefed on the progress of the Emirates Lunar Mission project, the first Emirati and Arab mission to explore the moon, launched by Sheikh Mohammed. The mission aims to develop and launch the first Emirati lunar rover named “Rashid,” which is the first of its kind in the Arab world. It will make the UAE the fourth country worldwide to gain new information about the moon and explore new areas on the lunar surface.
During his visit, Sheikh Hamdan expressed his appreciation for the outstanding efforts of the Emirati taskforce leading the project and all other teams involved in the mission. He said the efforts of young Emirati talent have helped the UAE become a key player in the global space sector.
The Crown Prince of Dubai stressed his confidence in the ability of Emiratis to help the country explore new horizons in the space sector. Their contributions will help create a beter future for the region and the world and their scientific knowledge, capabilities and determination will ensure the UAE continues to progress and excel, he said.
Sheikh Hamdan met the Emirates Lunar Mission team and reviewed the design of the “Rashid” Lunar Rover and its various launch phases. He was briefed in detail about the progress of the project. The rover was named “Rashid” by Sheikh Mohammed in honour of the late Sheikh Rashid Bin Saeed Al Maktoum.
Sheikh Hamdan also reviewed the development of the 100 per cent Emirati built lunar rover and the project roadmap for the upcoming period. The Centre’s team briefed him on the key stages of the roadmap with a focus on its scientific and innovative aspects. He was also briefed on the various components of the lunar rover, and its functions, features and characteristics.