DUBAI (The Thursday Times) — The UAE is set to embark on an ambitious space mission with the launch of the Mohammed Bin Rashid (MBR) Explorer spacecraft, targeting the Asteroid Belt. Scheduled for launch in early 2028, this mission will be facilitated by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, using Japan’s next-generation H3 rocket, it was revealed on Wednesday. The announcement came after the signing of an agreement between the UAE Space Agency and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, attended by Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of the Supreme Space Council.
An ambitious Emirates Mission
The Emirates Mission to the Asteroid Belt is a landmark initiative in the UAE’s expanding space exploration efforts and represents one of the nation’s largest space projects to date. This 13-year mission is expected to enhance the UAE’s leadership in space science and exploration. Sheikh Hamdan remarked that this mission highlights the UAE’s long-term vision of becoming a key player in space exploration and science.
“The UAE’s mission to explore the Asteroid Belt and Venus marks another significant milestone in our space journey,” Sheikh Hamdan said. He emphasised the dedication of Emirati talent, stating that the mission is driven by the nation’s investment in its citizens’ skills, allowing the UAE to continue advancing its space ambitions. Sheikh Hamdan further highlighted that this agreement is a crucial step in reinforcing the UAE’s leadership in the global space sector.
Pioneering asteroid exploration
The Mohammed Bin Rashid Explorer spacecraft will be part of a groundbreaking 13-year journey, with six years focused on spacecraft development and seven years dedicated to asteroid exploration. The mission will see the spacecraft embark on a 5-billion-kilometre journey, with close flybys of six asteroids in the main asteroid belt between Mars and Jupiter, ultimately landing on the seventh asteroid, Justitia. This exploration aims to provide valuable data on asteroid composition, geology, and thermophysical properties.
The MBR Explorer will be equipped with four advanced scientific instruments: a visible camera, a medium-wave infrared spectrometer, a thermal infrared spectrometer, and an infrared camera. These tools will help measure the surface composition, geology, internal density, and temperatures of asteroids, offering insights into their evolutionary history and water-rich origins.
Strategic partnerships
This mission is the third collaboration between the UAE and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries for space launches, following the successful launches of KhalifaSat in 2018 and the Hope Probe to Mars in 2020. Additionally, Sheikh Hamdan met with Dr Hiroshi Yamakawa, President of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA), to discuss deepening bilateral cooperation on shared space exploration goals.
Dr Ahmad Belhoul Al Falasi, UAE Minister of Sports and Chairman of the UAE Space Agency, remarked that this mission aligns with the UAE’s strategy to foster strong global partnerships while driving investments in its growing space industry. He noted that this partnership with Mitsubishi Heavy Industries showcases confidence in Japan’s technological expertise and furthers the UAE’s long-term space exploration goals.
A 5bn kilometre journey
The Emirates Mission to the Asteroid Belt will include a 5-billion-kilometre journey, utilising gravity assist manoeuvres from Venus, Earth, and Mars to optimise the spacecraft’s trajectory. The mission’s first asteroid encounter is expected in February 2030, marking the beginning of an extensive exploration campaign. This mission builds upon the success of the UAE’s Hope Probe, which reached Mars in 2021.
Collaboration on space investment
A number of national and international institutions are contributing to the success of the Emirates Mission to the Asteroid Belt. Key partners include Khalifa University, New York University Abu Dhabi (NYUAD), and the National Space Science and Technology Center at UAE University. In addition, the Technology Innovation Institute, Yahsat, and private-sector partners are involved in the mission’s hardware development. International collaborations include partnerships with the Italian Space Agency, University of Colorado, and University of Arizona.
These collaborations underscore the UAE’s commitment to fostering a knowledge-based economy while advancing scientific and technological innovation. Sheikh Hamdan highlighted that the UAE’s visionary leadership continues to strengthen global partnerships that drive space exploration and technological advancements, ultimately supporting the nation’s goals of sustainable growth and scientific leadership.
The H3, Japan’s new flagship vehicle
The H3 rocket, developed by JAXA and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, will serve as Japan’s flagship heavy-lift launch vehicle. The H3 was successfully launched in July 2023 from Japan’s Tanegashima Space Centre, after an initial failed debut. The rocket employs a unique expander bleed cycle for its first-stage engine, making it a cost-effective option for future space missions.
Paving the way for the future
The UAE’s space exploration efforts continue to pave the way for groundbreaking missions, reinforcing the nation’s leadership in science, technology, and space exploration. With the launch of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Explorer spacecraft aboard the H3 rocket in 2028, the UAE aims to solidify its place on the global stage, advancing knowledge of the asteroid belt and contributing to a better understanding of our solar system.
This 13-year mission highlights the UAE’s vision for the future, driven by innovation, sustainability, and the development of strong international partnerships.
