UAE's Ambitious Journey to Explore Space

The UAE Shoots for the Moon to Reach Mars: United Arab Emirates Focused on Lunar Missions

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is dreaming big not just on Earth, but in space as well. While the long-term goal is the colonization of Mars, 70% of the country's current efforts are focused on the exploration of the Moon. This was stated by the director general of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC) during the World Governments Summit. Exploring the Moon is a crucial step in researching life on Mars, and it is hoped that in the next 10 years, an Emirati astronaut will land on the Moon.

Moon First, Then Mars

It was emphasized that exploring the Moon is first important for the UAE because the data and experiences gained there can later be used in Mars research. The MBRSC is concentrating on the Moon over the next five years, but every development and discovery contributes to the eventual goal of reaching the Red Planet one day. The colonization of Mars is one of the UAE's most daring goals, which they aim to achieve by 2117.

The UAE Space Agency's director general also participated in the panel discussion, highlighting that missions to Mars can be beneficial not only for space research but also for humanity on Earth. Data about Mars's climate could help scientists understand the impacts of climate change on other celestial bodies. Additionally, it was emphasized that the UAE, being the first Arab country to become a leader in space exploration, plays an important role in the region's scientific and technological development.

UAE's Unique Position

Although the United Arab Emirates is only 53 years old, it has already become a leader in space research. This is thanks to visionary goals set by the leaders, as in the UAE, the goals were defined before financing, which is usually done in reverse in other countries, where strategies and policies are developed first, followed by financing.

"In 2005, the MBRSC began with a very modest, small team engaged in technology transfer programs to learn how to develop such systems. Ten years later, we can talk about satellites built in the UAE and missions to Mars."

A remark by Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the UAE's Vice President and the ruler of Dubai, was highlighted, stating "the day we stop taking on challenges, the UAE's development stops." This sentence serves as a fundamental principle for the space agency: accepting challenges and moving forward.

Advice for Future Astronauts

Not only was the future of space exploration discussed, but advice was also shared with those preparing to become astronauts. Besides engineering, science, and mathematics knowledge, the importance of "soft skills" was emphasized. Punctuality, meeting work deadlines, and discipline are attributes that mean a lot in a career in the long run.

"I believe these skills allow young people to set high standards in both work and life. If they apply it consistently, they can go very far," it was stated.

It was also highlighted that due to the rapid advancement of technology, it is not enough to rely solely on university knowledge. Continuous learning and keeping up with technological developments are essential to remain competitive in the long run. "Never stop learning; what you learned 20 years ago will not suffice 25 years later," it was added.

UAE's Space Dreams and the Future

The UAE's space exploration plans serve not only scientific development but also enhance the country's international prestige. Exploring the Moon and Mars presents not just a technological challenge but also the creation of humanity's future. The UAE's leaders and scientists envision a future where humanity finds a home not just on Earth but on other celestial bodies too.

In the coming years, attention will not only be directed towards the Moon but also towards Mars. The UAE's goals are both bold and inspiring, showing that a relatively young country is capable of realizing great dreams when leaders and society work together. Space is not only a realm of science but also of human ingenuity and perseverance.