The Mohammed bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC) is set to showcase the Emirates Mars Mission’s Hope probe model for the first time at the Dubai Airshow 2017 which kicks off tomorrow (November 12).

One of the most prominent and important aerospace events in the world, Dubai Airshow will run till November 16.

During its participation at the five-day event, MBRSC will also unveil its plan to host the International Astronautical Congress (IAC) 2020 in Dubai, as well as other programs launched or led by the Centre under the National Space Program.

Yousuf Hamad Al Shaibani, the director general of MBRSC said: "Our participation in this edition of Dubai Airshow gives us a valuable opportunity to highlight the National Space Program, mainly one of its ambitious programs, the Emirates Mars Mission, which is the first Arab and Muslim project to explore outer space."

Hope probe will be launched to space mid of 2020, and will travel 600 million km to reach Mars’ orbit by 2021, coinciding with the UAE’s 50th anniversary.

"The Emirates Mars Mission is a project of great importance, as it further boosts the UAE’s presence among the international space community and reflects the country's vision for science and technology fields development," he added.

Al Shaibani said the participation was an opportunity to meet major international aerospace companies and institutions, build strong strategic relations, as well as, discuss the latest developments and rapid changes in the field.

"The international space community has increasing confidence in the UAE’s space sector, which appeared in its support to MBRSC’s bid to host the International Astronautical Congress 2020 in Dubai," he noted.

During the Airshow, MBRSC’s engineers will participate in a panel discussion at the Space Pavilion.
Omran Sharaf, Emirates Mars Mission - Hope mission Project Manager at MBRSC will share his thoughts at a panel discussion titled Global Mars Exploration, which will discuss preparations for Mars and space exploration, what will it take to put Man on Mars?, in addition to what will the Emirate Mars Mission mean for global space development?

Also, Amel Amin, Nanosatellite Outreach Program Manager, at MBRSC will participate in a panel discussion, under the title Developing Education Systems and Inspiring a New Generation,  which will highlight the National Space Program, local skills development, national programs and institutions, and developing a local workforce through collaboration and partnerships.

"Our presence at this world-class interactive platform specialized in aerospace, underscores the big development of the space sector in the UAE, which has integrated elements and strategic plans for diversified space activities ranging from satellite manufacturing to space exploration for peaceful uses," he added.-TradeArabia News Service