Emiratis asked to join groundbreaking space research programme

Registration opens today for Emiratis to be part of CrewOne, an eight-month research project in Moscow

Hazza Al Mansoori (left) and Sultan Al Neyadi undergo training for their mission to space. Courtesy: Mohammed bin Rashid Space Centre

Emiratis have been asked to join groundbreaking research aimed at paving the way for future UAE space flight.

Participants in the UAE Analog mission will spend eight months at a facility in Russia that will simulate living conditions on Mars.

The study will aid scientist hoping to learn more about the impact of long-term journeys beyond Earth’s atmosphere.

Those chosen will stay in specially configured laboratories, carrying out experiments designed to prepare for manned trips to the Red Planet.

“The UAE is making great leaps in space research and exploration,” said Yousuf Al Shaibani, director general of the Mohammed bin Rashid Space Centre.

“Analog missions play a key role in developing new mindsets and technologies that are critical for future missions and effectively for all of humanity."

Following his mission to space in October last year, Emirati astronaut Hazza Al Mansouri spoke of the arduous physical preparation required for the trip.

On Saturday, his fellow astronaut Sultan Al Neyadi shared photos on Twitter of the brutal winter training the pair endured in a Russian forest.

Now, aspiring space enthusiasts will have the chance to be part of CrewOne, helping to “prepare for future crewed missions to Mars and beyond”.

Registration for the programme opened on Sunday, with successful applicants joining the UAE’s partnership with the Roscosmos Space Agency’s research facility in Moscow.

The new study will form part of the Mars 2117 programme that aims to build a human settlement on Mars.

The UAE’s participation will continue the country’s commitment to collaborating with international space agencies and research centres to encourage young Emiratis to explore careers in space technology and exploration.