White Outer Space Satellite. Representational Image.
White Outer Space Satellite. Representational Image. SpaceX/Pexels.com

MBZ-SAT, the most advanced satellite in the region, was successfully launched from Space Launch Complex 4E (SLC-4E) at Vandenberg Space Force Base in California, the U.S.

The launch took place aboard SpaceX's Falcon 9 rocket on Tuesday at 11:09 p.m. (UAE time), as announced by the Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC), WAM reported.

Weighing 750 kg and measuring 3m x 5m, MBZ-SAT represents a significant advancement in Earth observation technology. It features cutting-edge systems, including a high-resolution camera and data transmission speeds that are four times faster than current technologies.

Additionally, it is equipped with an electric jet propulsion system, a highly accurate navigation system with one-meter precision, and a star tracking system for exceptional positioning accuracy. These advanced features make MBZ-SAT an essential tool for scientific research and practical applications.

The satellite can produce images with twice the clarity of earlier models and generate 10 times more images. Its efficient scheduling and processing technology can deliver fully processed images within two hours of capture.

MBZ-SAT will support various applications, including tracking environmental changes, managing infrastructure, and aiding in disaster response, providing local and global organizations with timely, reliable data for critical decision-making.

Operations for MBZ-SAT will be handled by teams at the Mission Control Centre of MBRSC, who will oversee its functions and analyze the data it transmits back to Earth.

UAE's Prime Minister Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum witnessed the launch from the Mission Control Centre at MBRSC. The satellite is named in honor of President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

MBZ-SAT represents a significant achievement for the UAE, having been fully designed and developed by Emirati engineers at MBRSC. It was first announced by the UAE Prime Minister in 2020.

The satellite's launch was officially approved last year by Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defense, and President of MBRSC.

MBRSC Vice President Talal Humaid Belhoul Al Falasi credited the UAE's leadership for their support and vision, which played a vital role in the successful launch of MBZ-SAT. He highlighted this achievement as the start of a promising year for MBRSC, made possible through the dedication and expertise of its team.

MBRSC Chairman Hamad Obaid AlMansoori emphasized that the launch of MBZ-SAT showcases the UAE's progress in space technology and strengthens its global standing in the sector. He noted that the achievement demonstrates Emirati professionals' expertise and commitment to the leadership's vision.

MBRSC plans to continue working on projects that enhance the UAE's space capabilities, advancing its goal of becoming a space exploration and innovation leader.