The UAE has taken another bold step in space exploration. His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, witnessed the signing of an agreement between the Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC) and Thales Alenia Space. The collaboration will see Thales Alenia Space as a strategic partner in developing an essential module—the Pressure Equalisation Unit—on NASA’s Gateway lunar space station.

The signing took place at Qasr Al Watan in Abu Dhabi, with high-ranking officials present, including Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, and Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

Sheikh Hamdan highlighted the significance of this partnership, describing it as a major milestone for the UAE’s space ambitions. He praised the collaboration with international partners, including NASA, Japan, Canada, and the European Union, emphasizing its role in paving the way for the first Emirati Arab astronaut to reach lunar orbit.

The Gateway lunar space station is a central part of NASA’s Artemis program and will orbit the Moon, supporting long-term astronaut missions. The UAE’s Pressure Equalisation Unit will play a critical role, enabling safe extravehicular activities and contributing to advanced scientific research.

Hamad Obaid AlMansoori, Chairman of MBRSC, underlined that this partnership with Thales Alenia Space will enhance the UAE’s space technology capabilities and solidify its position in global space exploration. Salem Humaid AlMarri, Director General of MBRSC, added that this project reflects the UAE’s commitment to advancing humanity’s presence on the Moon and beyond.

The UAE will oversee the Pressure Equalisation Unit’s development in five stages, including planning, design, testing, and operational management. The unit will weigh 10 tonnes and measure 10 metres in length, making it a vital part of the Gateway station’s infrastructure.

With this project, the UAE aims to secure scientific and engineering leadership in space exploration, giving priority access to vital data collected during the mission. The partnership with Thales Alenia Space also reaffirms the UAE’s commitment to international collaboration in pushing the boundaries of human advancement in space.

This initiative follows the UAE’s announcement in January 2024 of its participation in the Gateway project, marking a significant chapter in its space exploration journey.