An engineer wearing a logo of the MBRSC walks towards KhalifaSat model. File/AFP

Gulf Today, Staff Reporter

A new satellite called the MBZ-SAT will become the second Emirati satellite to be fully developed and built by a team of Emirati engineers after the KhalifaSat.

Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre, (MBRSC) engineers continue to work on developing MBZ-SAT, as they recently used a 3D printer to print parts for a prototype of the satellite at MBRSC's space technology laboratories.

The MBZ-SAT is expected to be launched in 2023, making it the most advanced commercial satellite in the region in the field of high-resolution satellite imagery.

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed said, "The space sector is a key strategic sector that we strongly support, due to its role in improving the quality of life for people and providing humanity with innovative solutions for a better future. With the help of our national talent, we can raise the level of our ambitions and continue to support international efforts in the field of space science to serve the interests of both the region and the world."

"The name was chosen in honour of the achievements he has contributed to, of which we are proud of among nations. Our goal is to fully benefit from space science and find new opportunities to support the development of our country and the region, and also help societies overcome environmental and developmental challenges so they can prosper and progress."

The name of the previous satellite, KhalifaSat, was chosen by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum in honour of His Highness Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE.

Launched into space in October 2018, KhalifaSat was the first satellite to be designed and completely developed in the UAE by a 100 per cent Emirati team. Work on the KhalifaSat started in 2013 and it was the first satellite to be developed in the Arab world, ushering a new era in the field of space science and advanced technology for the region.

Fourth Earth Observation Satellite

MBZ-SAT will be equipped with an automated system for arranging images round-the-clock, ensuring that it provides the highest quality standards of satellite images intended for commercial use globally. This project will strengthen the UAE's partnership in the space industry between the public and private sectors.