UAE’s MBZ-SAT Earth-Observation Satellite Set to Launch Today: All You Need to Know

The Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Center (MBRSC) announced today the launch of MBZ-SAT, the most advanced satellite in the region. The 750 kg satellite will launch today aboard the SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket with a 27 minute window opening at 10:49 PM UAE time.

MBZ-SAT fully developed by a team of Emirati engineers at MBRSC represents a transformative step in the UAE’s journey in space exploration. “This project reflects the UAE’s unwavering vision for progress and innovation under our wise leadership. MBZ-SAT represents more than a technological achievement; it is a testament to our nation’s determination to lead in space science and contribute meaningfully to the global space community,” stated Salem Humaid AlMarri, director general of MBRSC.

Watch the launch of MBZ-SAT, the most advanced satellite in the region, today aboard a Falcon 9 rocket.
The live coverage starts at 9:30 pm (UAE time), and the mission launches at 10:49 pm: https://t.co/UpeGcR579S#MBZSAT pic.twitter.com/9g2Sp84C3f

— MBR Space Centre (@MBRSpaceCentre) January 14, 2025

The satellite equipped with cutting edge capabilities sets a new standard in Earth observation. With dimensions of 3m x 5m, the satellite has twice the imaging accuracy of its predecessors, ten times more imagery and rapid data delivery within two hours.

MBZ-SAT will also contribute to meeting the growing commercial demand for high resolution satellite images. This imagery solution can support a wide variety of uses within mapping and analysis, environmental monitoring, navigation, infrastructure management and disaster relief efforts.

After its development in the UAE, MBZ-SAT was transported to the Korea Aerospace Research Institute (KARI) in South Korea where comprehensive environmental testing was successfully completed.

The development of MBZ-SAT has catalyzed economic growth in the UAE by fostering a robust local aerospace ecosystem. Nearly 90 percent of the satellite’s mechanical structures and a significant portion of its electronic modules were produced in collaboration with UAE-based companies.

Once operational in low Earth orbit MBZ-SAT will be managed from the Mission Control Center at MBRSC with teams monitoring its operations and analyzing data transmitted back to Earth.

For those interested, live coverage of the launch begins at 9:30 PM UAE time at http://live.mbrsc.ae.