UAE launches Rashid Rover: Researchers, residents over the moon as Emirates creates history

UAE launches Rashid Rover: Researchers, residents over the moon as Emirates creates history

Several institutions in the country and across the globe have contributed to this landmark lunar mission

Mohammed bin Rashid visits MBRSC Mission Control Centre, witnesses Rashid Rover launch. Photo: WAM

Published: Mon 12 Dec 2022, 8:49 PM Last updated: Mon 12 Dec 2022, 9:02 PM

Researchers, residents and industry experts are beaming with joy following the successful launch of the UAE’s Rashid Rover – the Arab world’s first mission to the Moon.

As per latest update, ispace, the Japanese private firm, said that it was able to successfully establish a stable attitude for its Hakuto-R Mission 1 lunar lander and confirm stable power supply in orbit.

Several institutions in the UAE and across the globe have contributed to this landmark mission. New York University Abu Dhabi participated in the development of the rover’s instruments and the relevant data processing procedures, measuring critical properties and supporting the landing site selection.

Marta Losada, NYUAD dean of science, said it’s an honour for the university to be part of one of the UAE’s biggest space-related endeavours to date.

“Our talented team of faculty, researchers, and students have been working tirelessly in partnership with Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre and other key players in the region and worldwide to help turn