The UAE has officially partnered with Thales Alenia Space, a leading Italian-French aerospace company, to develop a crucial airlock module for NASA’s Gateway lunar station. This collaboration strengthens the UAE’s role in global space exploration and secures a future mission for an Emirati astronaut in lunar orbit. Set to launch in 2030, the airlock will serve as a vital entry and exit point for astronauts and cargo, supporting NASA’s Artemis program to establish a sustainable human presence on the Moon.
Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed, Crown Prince of Dubai, described the agreement as a “major step forward” for the UAE’s space ambitions. The country’s astronaut corps, which includes Hazza Al Mansouri, Sultan Al Neyadi, Nora Al Matrooshi, and Mohammed Al Mulla, is now positioned for greater participation in international space missions.
UAE’s Growing Role in Space Exploration
The UAE has been making remarkable strides in space exploration over the past decade, from launching the Hope Probe to Mars to its upcoming lunar rover, Rashid 2. Now, by joining forces with a leading European aerospace firm, the UAE is demonstrating its capability in developing key technologies for international space missions.
What is the Gateway Lunar Station?
NASA’s Gateway is a planned space station that will orbit the Moon, serving as a hub for deep-space exploration, scientific research, and future Mars missions. As part of NASA’s Artemis program, Gateway will provide astronauts with a safe environment for extended lunar stays and support crewed and robotic missions.
The Importance of the Airlock System
The airlock system is a critical component of the Gateway station, allowing astronauts to safely exit and enter the space station for moonwalks and maintenance activities. It also ensures the controlled release of spacecraft and scientific payloads into the lunar environment. The UAE’s involvement in this project showcases its growing expertise in space engineering and its commitment to advancing human spaceflight.
Strengthening International Collaboration
This partnership is a testament to the UAE’s strong collaboration with global space agencies and companies. By contributing to NASA’s lunar station, the UAE not only enhances its technological capabilities but also strengthens its position as a key player in the future of space exploration.
UAE’s Expanding Astronaut Corps
The UAE’s astronaut corps consists of four trained astronauts:
- Hazza Al Mansouri – The first Emirati in space, who flew to the International Space Station (ISS) in 2019.
- Dr. Sultan Al Neyadi – The first Arab astronaut to complete a six-month mission on the ISS in 2023, during which he conducted a historic seven-hour spacewalk.
- Nora Al Matrooshi – The first Arab woman selected as an astronaut, now eligible for space missions after completing NASA training.
- Mohammed Al Mulla – A former Dubai Police helicopter pilot who has also completed NASA’s astronaut training.
With this latest partnership, the UAE is reinforcing its commitment to human space exploration, aiming to play a significant role in future lunar and deep-space missions. The country’s collaboration with leading international agencies positions it as a key player in the next era of space exploration.
