Dream big, NASA ex-astronaut tells students

Students, part of the Space & Rocketry Academy (SARA-UAE) are thrilled with the launch of next phase, which includes an expanded range of training programmes and weekly workshops in space, rocketry, artificial intelligence (AI), and sustainability.

The academy is being operated by Compass International in Dubai and held an open session to unveil the details of its new phase.

It was attended by Dr. Donald Thomas, former NASA astronaut, Engr. Naser Al Rashdy, Director of Space Policy and Regulations at the National Space Academy, Lina Lampkin, Chairwoman of AmCham Abu Dhabi, and future astronauts-in-training. Talking to the media, Lissy Donald, Managing Director of Compass International said “This new phase is part of the academy’s mission to empower the next generation of innovators, engineers, and explorers while reinforcing the UAE’s commitment to building a knowledge-based, innovation-driven future.”

To mark the next phase of SARA’s journey, the academy hosted a special launch event at its campus, celebrating the UAE’s ongoing progress in space exploration and underscored the growing importance of developing youth talent for a rapidly evolving global scientific landscape.

Dr. Donald Thomas, who has completed four Space Shuttle missions and spent nearly 44 days in space, inspired students and teachers with stories from his journeys aboard Columbia and Discovery space shuttles, which were part of NASA’s fleet of five operational orbiters.

Lissy Donald said that this new phase in the academy’s mission is designed to make world-class STEM learning accessible to school and university students across the UAE.

“Through a blend of theoretical education, hands-on experimentation, and direct mentorship from industry leaders, the Academy aims to ignite young minds and nurture the skills required to excel in space technology, AI, and advanced engineering disciplines,” she added.

Speaking at the launch, Engr. Naser Al Rashdy said, “As the UAE continues to position itself as a regional leader and global partner in space science and exploration. As the UAE continues to advance in space science, from the Emirates Mars Mission to the human spaceflight programme, National space capacity building program reaffirms its role as a gateway for young learners to explore future skills inspired by real-world missions.” “Initiatives like SARA UAE play an impactful role in equipping our youth with the mindset, technical knowledge, and ambition needed to carry forward the country’s vision for the next fifty years.”