DubaiSat-1 ready for space launch

The UAE's first earth observation satellite has been developed by SatrecI in South Korea with in depth participation of UAE engineers from the EIAST and is "space ready" according to an official in Dubai.

Dubai Sat-1 will provide the UAE with its first dedicated Eye in the Sky, and now awaits its launch later this year onboard a Russian Rocket through the Moscow-based International Space Company (ISC) Kosmotras.

Designed and developed by a dedicated team and built in collaboration with international entities, DubaiSat 1 will be one of the most advanced small size satellite of its kind when it is launched at the end of this year.

Besides the satellite itself, the UAE team which participated in the development of the satellite was the highlight of the project, according to Ahmed Obaid Al Mansoori, Director General of EIAST.

"Developing a core team of UAE scientists and experts was the most definitive outcome of a strategy that is geared to support mature, knowledge based development. Developing a base of UAE scientists and engineers is a crucial first step in becoming a regional and global leader in the fields of advanced science and technology" said Mr. Mansoori.

While DubaiSat-1 awaits its year-end launch into space, its development team is already working on finalizing designs for DubaiSat-2, and will continue with its plans to create the UAE's first constellation of Satellites.

The design concept of DubaiSat-2 is being laid down and strategic partners for its construction are being selected.

The new satellite is also designed to be the top of its class by the time of its planned launch in 2012.

This achievement is just a stepping stone in the many plans EIAST has for the future including work in Nano-Technology, Alternative Energy and Astronomy.

Established by a Dubai Government decree in 2006 to facilitate the country's move to develop a knowledge-based economy, EIAST continues to be a springboard for promoting sustainable development and enhancing economic growth in the emirates and beyond by inspiring scientific innovation and fostering technological advancement.