Dubai: Agencies
The UAE announced today, Sunday, its joining the project to develop and establish the lunar space station “Gateway” alongside the United States of America, Japan, Canada and the European Union, in addition to announcing the sending of the first Emirati and Arab astronaut to orbit the moon, in the presence of Emirati President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. And Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.
Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed confirmed - during the announcement ceremony held in Abu Dhabi, according to what was reported by the Emirates News Agency (WAM) - that the UAE’s participation in this global project, which includes the elite of countries specialized in the field of space exploration, embodies its keenness to strengthen partnership with the world to serve science and humanity. Ensuring progress and prosperity for all. According to what was reported by the Middle East News Agency on Sunday
For his part, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid said that his country has a long journey in the space sector, and qualified cadres to lead the most difficult scientific missions, indicating that the UAE is waiting for this new achievement to be a major mission, and the project is the most advanced for the return of humans to the moon to descend on its surface and make it a base for missions. Future towards Mars.
The UAE’s participation in the project comes through the development of the “Emirates Gateway” pressure equalization unit project, which constitutes a major advance in the field of international cooperation in the field of space, as this achievement will contribute to strengthening the UAE’s position as a leading country in the field of global space exploration, based on the importance of the space station. The station will serve as a pivotal center for advanced scientific research, as it allows the study of lunar geology, astrophysics, and the effects of life in space for a long period, which contributes greatly to the development of an integrated and in-depth understanding of space science.
The UAE will be responsible for operating the station's pressure equalization unit for a period that may reach 15 years, which can be extended. The pressure equalization unit weighs 10 tons, is 10 meters long and 4 meters wide, while the dimensions of the entire station are (42 x 20 x 19 metres).
The first parts of the station are expected to be launched in 2025, while the “Emirates Gate” is expected to be launched in 2030.