Look up. Look way up. And smile. Everyone in the UAE should walk a little prouder today as the nation joined an elite group around the world. With the successful launch of the Yahsat Y1A satellite from the European Space Centre in Kourou, French Guyana, at the weekend, the UAE is riding high.
For the next 15 years, the satellite will be high above us, transmitting data and voice to more than 80 countries in the Middle East, Southeast Asia and Africa. The launch exemplifies the extent to which the UAE's quest for technological excellence and economic diversity has evolved.
The launch also allows the UAE to evolve as a leader in communications and information technology, with Abu Dhabi becoming the centre for its development. Everything went perfectly with the launch and testing will be completed over the coming weeks.
Space is no longer the future — it is here and now.
