The United Arab Emirates is advancing its space exploration capabilities through the development of locally produced technologies and the training of Emirati specialists ahead of the Emirates Mission to the Asteroid Belt (EMA), scheduled for launch in 2028. The Technology Innovation Institute (TII), the applied research arm of Abu Dhabi’s Advanced Technology Research Council, is contributing to the mission through research into propulsion systems and spacecraft technologies, as reported by Emirates News Agency (WAM), a partner of TV BRICS.
A key development is a UAE-made probe designed and tested in Abu Dhabi in cooperation with the UAE Space Agency and academic and technology partners. The probe is intended to be integrated into the MBR Explorer spacecraft and will separate from it upon arrival at asteroid 269 Justitia. It will capture images and conduct close-range observations to help researchers study the asteroid’s characteristics and composition, providing insights into the early formation of the solar system.
Electric propulsion will support the spacecraft’s multi-year journey while improving fuel efficiency. Emirati engineer Mariam Alhammadi received the Best Paper Award at the 2025 International Electric Propulsion Conference for her research on fuel consumption uncertainties. Fatima Alnaqbi contributed to developing the probe’s imaging capabilities, while Amna Alhosani is working on hybrid rocket design to advance the UAE’s space technologies.
Through these projects, TII is connecting scientific research with practical engineering and developing local expertise in spacecraft and propulsion technologies. The initiative also provides opportunities for Emirati scientists and engineers to gain experience in advanced research, supporting the country’s ambitions to expand its role in space exploration and contribute to international scientific missions.