Today, the launch of the "Mohammed bin Zayed Sat" satellite from Vandenberg Air Force Base

The Mohammed bin Rashid Space Center announced today the official launch date for "Mohammed bin Zayed Sat", the most advanced satellite in the region, which is expected to take place tonight at 10:49 pm UAE time, within a 27-minute time window, from Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, USA, on board the "Falcon 9" rocket of SpaceX.

It is worth noting that the launch timing may be subject to change based on weather and operational conditions, and a reserve launch date has been set for Wednesday, January 15, at the same time.

The Mohammed bin Rashid Space Center team has successfully completed the final tests of the satellite at SpaceX facilities in the United States of America, and "Mohammed bin Zayed Sat" is a major step in the UAE's journey in the field of space exploration, as it was developed entirely by Emirati hands at the Mohammed bin Rashid Space Center.

The satellite bears the name of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the United Arab Emirates, and was announced in 2020 by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defence, and President of the Mohammed bin Rashid Space Centre, approved the satellite for launch last May.

Mohammed bin Zayed Sat represents a milestone in the field of space technology, with a total weight of 750 kg and dimensions of 3 meters x 5 meters. The satellite features imaging resolution doubled compared to previous generations, with the ability to produce images ten times larger, and speed of data delivery within two hours only. It also includes advanced technologies, such as precision electric propulsion and a high-resolution camera, to meet various needs including environmental monitoring, infrastructure management, and disaster relief.

In addition to advanced technologies, the project has contributed to strengthening cooperation with local Emirati companies, as it has contributed to enhancing knowledge transfer, supporting the national economy, and consolidating the UAE’s position as a global hub for space technology.

Once the satellite reaches its low Earth orbit, it will be operated and managed by the Mission Control Centre at the Mohammed bin Rashid Space Centre, where specialized teams will manage operations and analyze data sent from the satellite to Earth.