The Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC) has announced receiving the first signal from MBZ-SAT and confirmed all systems are operating efficiently after its launch into orbit.
The region’s most advanced satellite has commenced its mission to deliver data supporting global development.
MBZ-SAT was launched from the Space Launch Complex 4E (SLC-4E) at the Vandenberg Space Force Base in California, USA aboard SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket on Tuesday at 11.09 PM (UAE time).
MBZ-SAT marks a significant milestone in the UAE’s satellite development journey, having been fully developed entirely by Emirati engineers at MBRSC. Named in honour of HH Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, the satellite was announced in 2020 by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, and Ruler of Dubai. The satellite was officially approved for launch last year by His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence of the UAE and President of MBRSC.
Weighing 750 kg with dimensions of 3m x 5m, MBZ-SAT represents a significant advancement in Earth observation technology. The satellite’s technical specifications demonstrate substantial improvements across all systems. Its imaging system also consists of one of the highest resolution cameras with improved data transmission rates – four times faster than existing systems. It is also equipped with an advanced electric jet propulsion system, a navigation system accurate to one metre, and a star tracking system that allows for unparalleled precision in positioning capabilities. These capabilities position MBZ-SAT as a significant advancement in Earth observation technology, providing valuable data for both research and practical applications.
The satellite will be able to capture images with double the precision of previous models while increasing image generation capacity tenfold. This improvement comes from its integrated scheduling and processing system, which can deliver processed images within two hours of capture. The satellite will serve multiple functions, including supporting environmental monitoring, infrastructure management, and disaster relief. These features allow local and international entities to make informed decisions based on current, accurate data.
The satellite will be operated and managed by the Mission Control Centre at MBRSC, with specialised teams handling operations and analysing the data transmitted to Earth.
Boosting industries
MBZ-SAT has boosted the UAE’s economic growth through collaboration with local industries. Local manufacturing played a crucial role, with UAE companies producing 90% of the satellite’s mechanical structures and a significant portion of the electronic components. Companies like Strata, EPI, Rockford Xellerix, Halcon, Falcon, and EGA contributed their expertise to various aspects of the satellite’s construction. This collaborative approach has strengthened the UAE’s space technology capabilities while transferring vital knowledge and skills to local talent—ensuring the nation maintains its competitive edge in global space exploration.
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