DubaiSat-1 reaches Baikonour launch base in Kazakhstan

His Excellency Mr Ahmed Al Mansoori, Director General and Vice Chair of the Board of Directors, EIAST, said:

"A joint UAE-Korean team is currently working on the testing process for all systems and equipments, which will take one week, before installing them in the launch vehicle."

DubaiSat-1 is a stepping stone in the UAE's attempt to create a sound infrastructure that enables the collection of space and earth observation data to power the comprehensive development of the nation. The satellite highlights the commitment of EIAST to create a knowledge based economy by leveraging the advances in satellite technology.

Images from DubaiSat-1 can be used for many applications such as urban development, scientific research, telecommunications, transportation, civil engineering & constructions, mapping and GIS.

The launch of DubaiSat-1 consists of three segments; space, ground and actual launch. The ground segment comprises mission control station, image receiving and processing station, and antenna and RF subsystem.

EIAST is focused on research in four areas: observation and fog forecast; use of satellite pictures in predicting sand storms; quality of water in the Gulf region - especially the effect of waste distillation in environment and marine life surrounding the oceans existing in the UAE; and ways to improve the clarity of satellite pictures.