Abu Dhabi: A National Centre for Space Science and Technology that will assist with the country’s national space programme was announced on Saturday after an agreement was signed between the Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA) represented by the ICT fund and UAE University (UAEU).
The centre will carry out different types of research related to space science including satellite communications, remote sensing, space technology, and studies on the atmosphere. The research will go towards strengthening the UAE’s ambitious space programme.
“The National Centre for Space Science and Technology falls within the framework of the strategic plan for the space sector in the UAE state. One of its objectives is to promote and support the efforts of scientific research, innovations and projects in space, in support of scientific progress of the state, and to put it on the international space map,” Dr Khalifa Al Rumaithi, chairman of the UAE Space Agency, said on the launching of the centre.
Dr Mohammad Al Ahbabi, director of the UAE Space Agency, said he was positive on the impact the new centre would have on increasing the UAE’s capabilities in the space sector.
“The centre supports innovation and scientific research in the fields of space science, which will contribute to the development of the national space sector’s capacity. The area of space exploration is among the seven major national sectors within the National Innovation Strategy, launched by His Highness Shaikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.”
Majid Al Mismar, deputy director-general of the TRA, said the centre would not only help with the country’s space programme, but more importantly create a spirit of innovation among young students in the UAE.
“This agreement comes within the framework of projects and educational initiatives the TRA will organise or support this year. The aim is the spreading of a culture of innovation among students, which enables them to innovate in the various fields. The National Centre for Space Science and Technology will provide the needed infrastructure to support their research and innovation in specialised areas of space science.”
His comments were echoed by Mohammad Albaili, vice-chancellor of UAEU, who said the centre would represent another strong example of innovation in the UAE, which would lead to a stronger space industry and a diversified economy.
