UAE explores opportunities for the use of aluminium in space

UAE explores opportunities for the use of aluminium in space

Mohammed bin Rashid Space Centre may use metal to construct the next spacecraft

Published: Fri 20 May 2022, 3:35 PM Last updated: Fri 20 May 2022, 3:58 PM

A delegation from the Mohammed bin Rashid Space Centre, led by Director-General Salem Al Marri, visited Emirates Global Aluminium (EGA) to explore potential collaboration in research and using EGA's UAE-made aluminium in space.

Al-Marri was received at EGA's Jebel Ali site in Dubai by Chief Executive Officer Abdulnasser bin Kalban and the company's leading technologists. The delegation toured EGA's state-of-the-art research and development facilities, Casthouse and laboratories.

The two discussed potential future synergies, including using EGA metal by the Mohammed bin Rashid Space Centre in constructing its next spacecraft, the sharing of laboratory capabilities, high-end machinery and fabrication facilities, and material sourcing.

Bin Kalban said, "We look forward to closing cooperation with the Mohammed bin Rashid Space Centre as the UAE's aluminium industry contributes to our nation's space ambitions. Since the dawn of flight, aluminium has been lightweight, strong, and infinitely recyclable and has been a key material in the aerospace sector. I look forward to EGA's UAE-made low carbon metal leaving our planet as part of UAE-made spacecraft."

Al-Marri stated, "I am thankful for the opportunity to