Dr Dimitra Atri, an astrophysicist at New York University Abu Dhabi, next to the new planetary simulation chamber. All photos: Victor Besa / The National
The high-tech system can recreate the extreme environments of Mars, the Moon and asteroids, helping scientists to analyse planetary conditions and test instruments.
Researchers will be able to replicate the surface conditions on other celestial bodies by adjusting the gas composition, pressure and temperature inside the controlled chamber.
The research from the chamber will complement data being gathered by UAE spacecraft on other planets and asteroids.
Dr Atri with research assistant, Vignesh Krishnamoorthi, at the Space Exploration Laboratory in NYUAD.
The lab is also equipped to create simulated regolith - the loose rock and dust that covers planetary surfaces - allowing scientists to better understand the physics and chemistry of these environments.
It has an optical system capable of recreating solar conditions across different regions of the solar system. Scientists will be able to expose samples to intense ultraviolet radiation, mimicking the effects of prolonged space exposure.
