MBZ-SAT data predicts weather phenomenon and supports disaster management

The Mohamed Bin Zayed Satellite (MBZ-SAT) captured stunning images of the UAE's most iconic landmarks, achieving a resolution 10 times greater than previous satellites.

Taken from an altitude of between 500 and 550 km, these high-quality images provide an artistic portrait of the country's landscape and landmarks.

The first images captured by the UAE's most advanced satellite, which is named after President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, were developed entirely by Emiratis at the Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC).

These images ranged from national symbols and cultural sites to nature reserves, mosques, and beaches. These images reflect an integrated national system for developing the UAE's Earth observation capabilities, marking a new chapter in the country's journey towards becoming a leader in space technology.

The first set of images, captured by the MBZ-SAT, show Qasr Al Watan and the Cultural District on Saadiyat Island in Abu Dhabi, as well as Ain Dubai and Expo City Dubai.

The second set of four images show Khorfakkan in Sharjah and Al Aqah in Fujairah. The third set included two images of the Al Zorah Nature Reserve in Ajman and the UAE flagpole in Umm Al Quwain. The fourth set comprises four images of the House of Wisdom in Sharjah and the Sheikh Khalifa Grand Mosque in Al Ain.

The primary payload of the satellite is its high-resolution camera, which can capture images across a wide spectrum, including visible and near-infrared light. Advanced technologies are also used to enhance resolution and increase contrast.

These features enable high-resolution images of Earth to be captured for the analysis of various urban, environmental and climatic data.

The MBZ-SAT uses advanced optical imaging to create a sophisticated system that provides more comprehensive and accurate Earth observation, enhancing the country's national capabilities and its journey towards becoming a leader in space technology.

The images captured by the satellite are characterised by their high resolution, enabling detailed observation of areas smaller than one square metre. This is one of the most advanced features in space technology. Images and data from the MBRSC can be used in various fields, including sustainable urban planning, monitoring environmental changes, forecasting natural weather phenomena and monitoring water quality. They also support efforts to address crises and manage global disasters, including assessing disaster-related damage.

Satellite data is processed using artificial intelligence technologies. This involves a series of complex steps, including receiving and storing the data, correcting it radiometrically, spatially and geometrically, enhancing and analysing it. After that it is converted into information that decision-makers and scientists can use in various fields.

The satellite completes one orbit of Earth every 90 minutes. Launched on 14 January 2025 from Vandenberg Air Force Base in California aboard a Falcon 9 rocket, its mission is to monitor the environment by providing valuable data to track environmental changes and improve water quality.

Its mission is to monitor the environment by providing valuable data to track environmental changes and improve water quality. It also aims to support sustainable urban planning and infrastructure management. Furthermore, it aims to facilitate disaster relief by evaluating responses to natural disasters and contributing to relief operations. Furthermore, it supports agricultural development by monitoring weather phenomena and providing the necessary data.

The data and control unit of the MBZ-Sat contains software and processors that enable autonomous control of the satellite. This enables it to receive commands and send information to and from the ground station at the MBRSC in Dubai's Al Khawaneej area. The satellite is also equipped with thermal systems to control its temperature during the mission, and all its components are designed to withstand the highest and lowest temperatures it is likely to encounter in orbit.