The National Space Science and Technology Center at UAEU Participates in Geo-Spatial Week Exhibition

The National Space Science and Technology Center at United Arab Emirates University participated in Geo-Spatial Week 2025, held at the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) from April 7 to 11, under the theme “Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing for a Better Tomorrow.”

Ali Mohamed Al Shehhi, Director of the National Space Science and Technology Center, stated “Our participation in Geo-Spatial Week 2025 reaffirms the Center’s commitment to advancing innovation in geospatial technologies and strengthening our presence at specialized national and international forums. Through this event, we aim to highlight the Center’s role in developing research-based and practical solutions that serve key sectors and contribute to achieving the UAE’s national sustainable development goals, in alignment with the country's future vision for space exploration and geographic data.”

He further added “During the event, the Center showcased several satellite programs focused on Earth observation and remote sensing applications. One of the flagship projects is the Arab Satellite 813, the first Arab satellite equipped with a hyperspectral camera and an aerometer. This advanced satellite platform plays a vital role in supporting environmental studies, climate change research, and a range of geographic applications, it is an advanced platform supporting environmental studies, climate change research, and geographic applications. This project represents a significant step forward in Arab cooperation in the space sector, providing open data to countries in the region to support scientific research and environmental policymaking. It is funded by the UAE Space Agency.

The center showcased the LEO Nav project, the first Emirati satellite constellation dedicated to providing navigation and positioning services (PNT) from Low Earth Orbit (LEO). The system is notable for its ability to operate in high-interference signal environments. It includes a dual-frequency navigation signal broadcasting system (L5 and S bands), along with a GNSS receiver and a precise orbit determination system. The launch is scheduled for 2026.

The center also presented Al Ain Sat-1, an educational CubeSat developed by students. This project reflects the center’s commitment to building national capacities in space engineering by providing hands-on experience in designing and operating CubeSats.

Additionally, the center contributed a research paper titled "Development and Capabilities of the Arab Satellite 813 for Earth Observation and Environmental Monitoring", presented by Hajar Al Abdouli. The paper highlights the scientific and technical aspects of this pioneering project.

Engineer Mohammed Al Tamimi also participated in a panel discussion titled "Empowering Youth in Emirati Space Missions", where he shared his professional journey that began as a student working on the Al Ain Sat-1 project. He later advanced to become an engineer contributing to the development of the Arab Satellite 813. This participation underscores the vital role of youth in the UAE’s space sector and their contribution to national space projects.