Emirates Institution for Advanced Science & Technology signs MoU with Russian Space Agency

Ahmed Obaid Al Mansoori, Head of EIAST, and Anatoly Perminov, Head of the Russian Federal Space Agency of the Russian Federation (ROSCOSMOS), have signed the memorandum of understanding in Abu Dhabi on the sidelines of the first visit to the UAE by the Russian Space Agency President Vladimir Putin.

As per the MoU, DubaiSat-1 will be launched under the supervision and with the authorization of the Russian Federal Space Agency through the Moscow-based International Space Company (ISC) Kosmotras.

Ahmed Obaid Al Mansoori, Head of EIAST, said:

"This MoU constitutes an important step in the run up to the launch of DubaiSat-1 which construction is in process. Kosmotras' track record is impressive. The company has successfully and accurately positioned similar types of satellites in their orbits using state-of-the-art technologies". Al Mansoori added that factors of long history of the Russian space industry, launch window and unique launch techniques were instrumental in choosing Kosmotras for the launch of DubaiSat-1.'

The cooperation with the Russian Federal Space Agency within the framework of the MoU includes the implementation of joint research, exchange of data and expertise, the development and production of satellites and their spare parts, and other scientific and technological projects.

Al Mansoori added,

"DubaiSat-1 will provide the UAE with valuable data that will be vital in decision-making particularly in areas of infrastructural development, long-term urban planning, management of natural disasters, and scientific and space research and development."

The Dubai space program, a pioneering initiative spearheaded by EIAST, aims at setting the platform for the UAE's quest for scientific and technological advancement as the country strides to develop a knowledge-based economy.

Emirates Institution for Advanced Science and Technology (EIAST) was established to promote the culture of advanced scientific research in Dubai and UAE and create an internationally competitive base for human skills development.

In addition to strengthening the country's international collaborative links and establish joint projects with industry and research organisations worldwide.

The details of DubaiSat-1 project and its timeline will be revealed in a press conference to be held in Dubai next week.