WATCH: UAE’s first student-driven satellite reaches orbit
SpaceX Falcon 9 launched UAE University's Al Ain Sat-1 into low earth orbit
ABU DHABI: The United Arab Emirates University (UAEU) has successfully launched its first satellite, Al Ain Sat-1, marking a new chapter in the nation’s space exploration journey.
The satellite, designed as a 3U CubeSat, was launched aboard SpaceX's Falcon 9 rocket, and the centre's ground station successfully received the satellite's first signal.
Weighing 3.7 kilograms and measuring 10 cm x 10 cm x 30 cm, it will operate in low Earth orbit, providing valuable contributions to remote sensing research.
Al Ain Sat-1 project
The Al Ain Sat-1 project is a collaboration between UAEU’s National Space Science and Technology Centre (NSSTC) and the IEEE Geoscience and Remote Sensing Society (GRSS).
It is part of the GRSS Student Grand Challenge, aimed at empowering student teams to develop Earth observation payloads for small satellites.
This initiative brought together researchers and students from institutions in Indonesia, Japan, and Spain, showcasing a global partnership in space innovation.
A historic milestone for UAEU
Zaki Anwar Nusseibeh, Cultural Advisor to the UAE President and Chancellor of UAEU, hailed the satellite's launch as a historic milestone for the university. He emphasised its alignment with the UAE’s strategic goals of advancing scientific research and space exploration.
“Al Ain Sat-1 reflects the tireless efforts of our dedicated team and underscores our commitment to fostering creativity and innovation in space sciences,” said Nusseibeh.
The satellite project serves as a platform for skill enhancement and knowledge exchange among students and researchers. Prof. Ahmed Ali Alraeesi, Acting Vice Chancellor of UAEU, highlighted its role in bridging academia and the space industry.
“This programme provides a research-rich environment for students, enabling them to work on practical applications of satellite payloads while fostering international collaboration,” he stated.
UAE’s space initiatives
Ali Alshehhi, Director of NSSTC, described Al Ain Sat-1 as an addition to the UAE’s ambitions in space innovation. He noted that the programme not only empowers students but also reflects the centre’s vision of “Space Without Boundaries,” inspiring global teamwork and technological advancements.