The UAE Space Agency concluded its participation in the 35th Space Symposium in Colorado Springs, USA, which was held from 8 April to 11 April. The Agency discussed future exploration plans and achievements in space with global leaders from the commercial, government and military sectors.
The conference was attended by key representatives from the UAE Space Agency, led by His Excellency Dr. Eng. Mohammed Nasser Al Ahbabi, Director General of the UAE Space Agency, along with delegates from the Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC), Al Yah Satellite Communications, and Thuraya Telecommunications Company.
His Excellency Dr. Al Ahbabi took part in a panel entitled ’The Next 50 Years: Agency Leader Perspectives’, during which he discussed future opportunities in the space industry, emphasizing the importance of space science education and research in developing human capacity, along with the importance of international collaboration in space.
H.E. Dr. Eng. Al Ahbabi said: “We strive to inspire students to study STEM subjects and provide them with the required knowledge and training to prepare them for careers in the space sector or other technologically advanced industries. Empowering the next generation to tackle the challenges of the future is as important as our international partnerships, which bring together knowledge and expertise from around the world to guide our efforts to advance our understanding of the universe.”
“We are delighted to be participating in the Space Symposium for the fourth year in a row. It is one of the most significant gatherings of global space entities and the discussions during the Symposium will undoubtedly shape the year ahead. The Symposium also represents an excellent opportunity to exchange ideas and share future plans. In particular, we enjoyed discussing the upcoming launch of the Hope Probe to Mars next year as well as the UAE’s hosting of the International Astronautical Congress,” added H.E. Dr. Eng. Al Ahbabi.
During the Symposium, the UAE delegation met with representatives of global space agencies and organisations including the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) and the UK Space Agency, to discuss opportunities to enhance collaboration in space. The delegation also met with Askar Zhumagaliyev, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense and Aerospace of the Republic of Kazakhstan, to discuss future space projects and partnerships.
In addition, on the sidelines of the Symposium, global space leaders led by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) discussed future opportunities in space, with a focus on lunar science and exploration.
During the Symposium, Yahsat, the UAE’s leading global satellite operator, and Thuraya Telecommunications Company, the mobile satellite solutions subsidiary of Yahsat, alongside the Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre and the UAE Space Agency, highlighted the UAE’s latest achievements in space and showcased their latest satellite communications products and services.
The Space Symposium, which is held annually, brings together space leaders from different parts of the space sector including government, industry, and military experts from around the world. The Symposium provides participants with the opportunity to network with other influential figures, and learn from world-renowned speakers.