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In just a few years the UAE has made its name in space: a probe that reached Mars, two astronauts on the International Space Station and a rover heading to the Moon.
The Hope Probe: reaching Mars
The Hope Probe was launched from Japan in July 2020 and reached orbit around Mars in 2021. With its arrival, the UAE became the first Arab country and the fifth country in the world to reach Mars.[1][2]
Hazzaa AlMansoori: the first Emirati in space
In 2019 Hazzaa AlMansoori flew to the International Space Station, becoming the first Emirati astronaut to go to space. His mission on the station lasted 8 days.[3]
Sultan AlNeyadi: the longest Arab space mission
In 2023 Sultan AlNeyadi spent 6 months on the International Space Station — the longest Arab space mission — taking part in more than 200 scientific experiments. He also became the first Arab to carry out a spacewalk, which lasted 7 hours and 1 minute.[4]
To the Moon: the «Rashid» rover
The «Rashid» lunar rover is named in honour of Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum. As part of the UAE's lunar mission, «Rashid Rover 2» is heading for the far side of the Moon.[1][5]
Emirati satellites
On 14 January 2025 the «MBZ-SAT» satellite was launched.[6]
Test yourself
Three questions from the article. Answer, then tap «Show the answer».
Who was the first Emirati astronaut to go to space?
- ASultan AlNeyadi
- BHazzaa AlMansoori
- CNora AlMatrooshi
- DMohammad AlMulla
Show the answer
Correct answer: B) Hazzaa AlMansoori
In which year did the Hope Probe reach orbit around Mars?
- A2019
- B2020
- C2021
- D2023
Show the answer
Correct answer: C) 2021
How long was Sultan AlNeyadi's spacewalk?
- A1 hour
- B7 hours and 1 minute
- C3 hours
- D12 hours
Show the answer
Correct answer: B) 7 hours and 1 minute
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