MBZ-SAT Satellite Begins Environmental Testing In South Korea
Satellite Due To Launch This Year
The Dubai-based Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC) has initiated crucial environmental testing of its MBZ-SAT satellite at the Korea Aerospace Research Institute (KARI) testing facility in Daejeon, South Korea.
The rigorous two-month testing phase, guided by Tariq Al Nasser, MBRSC’s Environmental Test Manager, encompasses thermal vacuum testing to simulate space conditions, vibration testing to assess structural integrity, acoustic testing to withstand launch sound pressures, and mass properties testing for precise deployment calculations.
These assessments are pivotal to the satellite’s resilience in harsh space conditions.
MBZ-SAT is scheduled to be launched into space by October 2024 aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket during SpaceX’s Transporter-12 Rideshare mission. This would mark a significant milestone for the UAE Satellite Programme being undertaken by the MBRSC.
Salem Humaid Al Marri, Director General of MBRSC, said: “The commencement of environmental testing signifies a critical phase in our journey towards launching MBZ-SAT. This testing phase underscores our commitment to advancing space technology and contributing to sustainable development both locally and globally.”
Amer Al Sayegh Al Ghaferi highlighted the importance of the tests: “Environmental testing is crucial to ensuring MBZ-SAT’s readiness for the challenging environment of space. Conducted at KARI, these tests uphold our standards of precision and quality.”
After completing the environmental testing at KARI, MBZ-SAT will be sent from South Korea to the United States for final preparations before its scheduled launch.
Developed by UAE engineers, MBZ-SAT marks a significant leap in the Middle East’s aerospace capabilities. Equipped with a camera capable of high-resolution imaging, the satellite will support applications ranging from environmental monitoring to disaster relief efforts.
The satellite will enhance the UAE’s technology and space research capabilities. It will strengthen the country’s position as a regional leader in space exploration and contribute to international collaboration and space science partnerships.
The MBRSC currently steers the UAE Satellite Programme, UAE Astronaut Programme, Mars 2117 Programme and Emirates Mars Mission, among other programmes.
Featured image: The MBZ-SAT satellite was transported from Dubai, UAE, to Daejeon in South Korea, where it has begun environmental testing. Credit: MBRSC
