PHI-1 satellite ready for launch under MBRSC–UNOOSA partnership to broaden 'access to space for all'

The Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC) has announced that PHI-1, the first modular satellite platform developed under the Payload Hosting Initiative (PHI) programme in partnership with the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA) initiative “Access to Space for All,” is ready for launch.

The mission, with payloads from Bahrain Space Agency, Antarikchya Pratisthan Nepal, MBRSC and Sharjah Academy for Astronomy, Space Sciences & Technology (SAAST), is scheduled to lift-off on Wednesday (Nov.19,2025) aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California, USA.

PHI-1 represents a defining milestone in the UAE’s efforts to democratise access to space and strengthen international cooperation in science and technology by providing countries the opportunity to test their innovations in space. Designed and assembled in Dubai, this modular satellite platform embodies the UAE’s vision of using innovation to empower nations and institutions to take part in meaningful space exploration.

Amer AlSayegh AlGhaferi, Assistant Director General of the Aerospace Engineering Sector, MBRSC, said, “PHI-1 is a mission that reflects the UAE’s vision to create opportunities for all and to contribute to a sustainable and knowledge-driven future in space exploration.”

“Through this initiative, we are offering a platform that enables nations, institutions and other entities to engage directly in space science, research and innovation. By building this satellite in the UAE and collaborating with partners across the world through the UNOOSA’s ‘Access to Space for All’ initiative, we are reinforcing our commitment to advancing global cooperation and to empowering the next generation of engineers and researchers who will carry humanity’s exploration forward.”

Aarti Holla-Maini, Director, United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs, said, “As we prepare for the launch of PHI-1, we see how powerful genuine international cooperation can be. Through UNOOSA’s multilateral framework and MBRSC’s capabilities, we are enabling new actors to bring their ideas to orbit, gain vital experience, and strengthen their own programmes. Initiatives like this are essential to ensure that access to space, and the benefits of scientific progress, are shared widely and fairly among all nations.” PHI-1 is a 12U CubeSat platform that enables international partners to test and validate new technologies in orbit.

With a mass of up to 20 kilogrammes and an expected operational lifespan of one year, the satellite is designed to perform a range of technology demonstrations that advance the development of small satellite systems.

Through this mission, MBRSC is creating a space-based environment for research, education and innovation that enhances human capacity in satellite engineering, data processing and real-time mission operations.

PHI-1 hosts a set of pioneering payloads that highlight its global reach and collaborative intent.

The Bahrain Space Agency contributes “AMAN,” a payload designed to test Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) protocols to secure satellite communications and ensure data protection between the spacecraft and ground stations.

From Nepal, Antarikchya Pratisthan Nepal’s LoRa Satellite System will explore how LoRa technology functions in space, offering young engineers valuable hands-on experience in satellite design and communication.

MBRSC’s own contribution, a New-Space Video Camera, will capture high-definition images and videos to support technology verification, educational outreach and Earth observation data requests.

In addition, the payload from SAAST includes a PCB that will measure temperature and orientation in space that aims to demonstrate student-led innovation, giving learners the chance to contribute to a real space mission.

Locally developed PHI-1’s development was carried out entirely at MBRSC’s facilities in Dubai, where partner teams collaborated through different stages of design, testing and mission preparation.

The Centre provided full integration and verification support, ensuring that each payload met its specific operational objectives. Once deployed into Low Earth Orbit at approximately 500 kilometres altitude, PHI-1 will transmit data to MBRSC’s Ground Station and Mission Control Centre, where it will be analysed and shared with the participating entities to support further research and development. The mission demonstrates the country’s growing role in shaping a more inclusive and collaborative global space ecosystem where knowledge, expertise and opportunities are shared openly to benefit all of humanity.

It is also aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, contributing to Quality Education by building human capacity in space research, to Decent Work and Economic Growth by encouraging innovation-driven economies, and to Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure by supporting the establishment of sustainable space industries.