UAE declares its involvement with NASA's Lunar Gateway Station

In the distinguished presence of UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, the UAE has announced its active involvement in the collaborative development of a module on NASA’s Lunar Gateway Station. This significant initiative involves a partnership with the USA, Japan, Canada, and the European Union, aiming not only to contribute to lunar exploration but also to send the first Emirati astronaut into lunar orbit.

The UAE's commitment to the project extends to the development of the Crew and Science Airlock module on the Lunar Gateway Station, to fortify its global presence in space science and technology.

During the event at Qasr Al Watan in Abu Dhabi, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan emphasized the UAE's dedication to fostering partnerships that advance knowledge and progress for humanity. He expressed pride in the national institutions and teams working towards realizing the country’s space ambitions and reiterated unwavering support for international missions aligning with sustainable development goals.

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum highlighted the UAE's extensive experience in the space sector, with a team of highly skilled professionals capable of leading challenging scientific missions. He underscored the limitless ambition driving future Emirati projects, particularly in contributing to humanity's return to the Moon and establishing it as a base for future Mars missions.

The announcement ceremony witnessed the presence of other key dignitaries, including His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister, and Chairman of the Presidential Court, and H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of Dubai Executive Council.

The UAE's participation marks it as the fifth partner in a project poised to be among the foremost global achievements of the 21st century. This collaboration, conducted in conjunction with NASA, signifies a historic milestone in the UAE's space endeavors.

The UAE's role in the project involves the development of the lunar space station's critical component—the Crew and Science Airlock. This component, measuring 10 meters in length, 4 meters in width, and weighing 10 tonnes, will serve as the gateway for missions and astronauts traveling to the Moon's surface from the Lunar Gateway Station.

The Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC) will oversee the management, maintenance, and operation of the Airlock, ensuring its effectiveness as an integral part of the Gateway. The Gateway, functioning as a space laboratory, is designed for various scientific and technical experiments, with a minimum lifespan of 15 years, extendable as needed.

The initial elements of the Gateway are projected to be launched by 2025, with the Emirates Airlock set for launch by 2030. The Airlock project will undergo five main stages, including planning, design, qualification, flight preparation, and operations, all aimed at ensuring the successful integration and functioning of this crucial space component.