UAE's Trailblazing Female Astronaut to Reach Moon
Noora AlMatrooshi: The UAE's First Female Astronaut Aiming for the Moon
Noora AlMatrooshi, the first female astronaut from the United Arab Emirates (UAE), aspires not only to reach the stars but also to inspire girls and young women with her story. In her lecture at the American Academy for Girls in Dubai, she emphasized that she wants girls to know that the UAE leadership and the nation provide every opportunity for them to succeed in any field. "I hope to be the astronaut who plants the UAE flag on the Moon one day," AlMatrooshi stated as she shared her dreams and experiences with the students.
The Role of Women in Space Exploration
AlMatrooshi stressed that space exploration is no longer an exclusively male domain. Women play an increasingly significant role in this field, and she aims to set an example for girls who harbor similar dreams. "Girls must know that our country's leaders and the UAE provide every opportunity for them. They must work hard, be dedicated, and serve the nation in every sector," she said.
The first female Emirati astronaut not only aims to reach the Moon but also wishes to participate in future missions to Mars. During her training, she studies geology to assist in identifying rock samples that could offer crucial insights into the history of the Red Planet.
Hard Work and Dedication
She highlighted the impact she wishes to have on girls: "I want them to feel motivated to participate in the UAE space program and various initiatives offered by the country. They must know that our leaders and our nation provide every opportunity for them. But they need to be prepared for these opportunities; they need to work hard, be committed, and serve the country in every field."
In 2021, AlMatrooshi and her colleague, Mohammed AlMulla, were selected for the second batch of the UAE astronaut program. Their training began at the Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC) in Dubai and continued at NASA's Johnson Space Center, where they prepared for space challenges for two and a half years. "We acquired various skills, including preparing for spacewalks, using the International Space Station (ISS), and robotic arm systems, physical training, and leadership skills. Our training continues at the MBRSC and the Johnson Space Center," she added.
Towards the Moon and Mars
AlMatrooshi mentioned that at MBRSC, they participate in numerous projects, including the astronaut program. The UAE collaborates with NASA, the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA), the Canadian Space Agency (CSA), and the European Space Agency (ESA). "We work together on future projects, such as sending astronauts to the Moon. The UAE is currently the fifth partner in the 'Lunar Gateway' program, which aims to create a space station orbiting the Moon. The UAE is responsible for developing the airlock module," she explained.
AlMatrooshi revealed that her astronaut career began with a mechanical engineering background, even before the UAE had an astronaut program. With her family's support, she pursued her dream and joined the UAE astronaut team, which included Hazza Al Mansouri, the first Emirati astronaut, and Sultan Al Neyadi, the first Arab to perform a spacewalk.
Courage and Independence
Noora AlMatrooshi's story not only reflects the UAE's space exploration ambitions but also highlights the crucial role women play in science and technology. Her dream to carry the UAE flag to the Moon is not just a personal goal but an inspiration for a nation.
