The National Space Science Agency (NSSA) and the Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC) of the United Arab Emirates signed two agreements during the seventh Bahrain International Airshow (BIAS) 2024.
The first agreement seeks to leverage Earth observation data for environmental sustainability projects, reflecting both parties’ commitment to advancing the regional space sector and contributing to comprehensive sustainable development. The initial collaboration will involve a project to monitor water quality using remote sensing and artificial intelligence technologies.
The second agreement focuses on designing a Bahraini payload to be mounted on an MBRSC lunar rover. This payload will include advanced cameras designed by NSSA to meet the harsh environmental conditions of the Moon. These cameras will be integrated into the rover’s navigation system, enabling ground control teams to perform essential tasks such as analysing the landing site, mapping the area, and examining lunar soil.
These agreements build on a memorandum of understanding signed between the two entities in 2019 and expand their collaborative efforts in areas such as satellite payload development, lunar exploration missions, and outer space research.
The agreements also aim to deepen cooperation through expertise sharing and joint initiatives employing space data and advanced technologies like artificial intelligence, machine learning, and deep learning. Potential applications span multiple sectors, including agriculture, environmental monitoring, urban development, renewable energy, and disaster management, aligning with sustainable development goals.
Dr. Mohamed Ibrahim Al Aseeri, NSSA CEO, Said the Bahrain Economic Vision 2030 integrates climate monitoring and the goal of achieving net zero emissions by 2060. He cited key national initiatives, such as reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 30%, doubling renewable energy production, doubling trees, and quadrupling mangrove tree numbers by 2035. He emphasised NSSA’s commitment to leveraging space technologies for sustainable development, which is supported by the national space policy.
Dr. Al Aseeri also acknowledged the important role of NSSA’s Lab for Processing Space Data and Images in addressing climate challenges. The lab provides satellite data, imagery, and analytical studies for resource monitoring, ecosystem assessment, and climate policy development. He added that these initiatives highlight the importance of space projects in combating climate challenges and achieving sustainability goals.
Dr. Al Aseeri also expressed pride in the collaboration with MBRSC on the lunar payload, noting it as a significant step towards enhancing Arab contributions to future sciences and space exploration. He added that Bahrain’s role in the historic mission underscores the advanced capabilities of its national workforce and their readiness to contribute to international space initiatives. He emphasised that this achievement represents Bahrain’s commitment to advancing the space sector under the vision of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa.
Salem Humaid Al Marri, Director-General of MBRSC, affirmed the centre’s commitment to fostering regional space cooperation. He underscored the importance of leveraging space data and advanced technologies to address environmental sustainability challenges and contribute to global climate efforts. He expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration with NSSA, which aims to enhance innovation and expand the scope of space and environmental projects for the benefit of future generations.
MBRSC Director-General also commended the partnership with NSSA on the ambitious lunar mission, highlighting the role of Bahraini engineers in developing advanced scientific payloads. He emphasised that such collaborations reinforce Arab progress in scientific and engineering advancements and deepen ties between Bahrain and the UAE in achieving common goals.
NSSA has recently joined the Space Climate Observatory and continues its collaborations with international partners. This includes the development of a carbon dioxide sensor with UK partners and participation in the Arab Satellite 813 project for climate monitoring in partnership with the UAE. These initiatives reflect NSSA’s commitment to contributing to global and regional advancements in space science and sustainability.
BNA(R)
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