Dubai: Following the successful launch of DubaiSat-1 into orbit at 10.46pm UAE time on Wednesday, the Emirates Institution for Advanced Science and Technology (EIAST) announced on Thursday that the satellite has achieved optimal position in orbit around the earth and has successfully connected with the EIAST earth observation station in Dubai.
The earth observation team is now working on DubaiSat-1's calibration and data transfer processes before the satellite becomes fully operational.
EIAST confirmed UAE engineers and scientists at the Dubai earth observation station were able to stabilise DubaiSat-1 in its 680-km orbit at 3.30am local time after the satellite completed two successful orbits of the earth.
The team has also remotely deployed the satellite's solar panels, which will power DubaiSat-1 for the next five years.
Ahmad Al Mansouri, Director General of EIAST, said: "With the blessing of Allah, the launch process was completely successful, and DubaiSat-1 is now carrying the UAE's flag into space.
DubaiSat-1 is undoubtedly a sterling addition to the UAE's strategic accomplishments and what we have achieved so far can be attributed to the hard work and dedication of our national engineers and scientists."
"While the moon landing was a huge leap for humanity, DubaiSat-1 is a huge leap for the UAE's science and technology initiatives, and for our nation's aspirations," Al Mansouri added.
DubaiSat-1 was launched into space from the launch pad in Baikonour in Kazakhstan under the supervision of UAE engineers and scientists, who are responsible for more than a third of the project's implementation.
Observers and anal-ysts described the satellite's launch, a significant achievement for the UAE, as a product of the UAE's visionary leadership and efforts to enhance knowledge and technological development, and embrace the latest achievements to position the UAE as the regional hub of the knowledge economy.
The launch of DubaiSat-1 will pave the way for additional space projects.
"DubaiSat-1 is a stepping stone in the UAE's attempt to create a sound infrastructure that enables the collection of space and earth observation data to power the comprehensive development of our nation," Al Mansouri said.
