UAE launches plan to send four Emirati astronauts into space

The UAE on Wednesday launched its ambitious plan to send four Emirati astronauts into space.

Young Emiratis have been invited to register for the UAE Astronaut Programme by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the UAE's Vice President and Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai.

The move is part of the UAE space programme that aims to reach Mars in 2021 and build first settlement on the Red Planet in 2117.

In a series of tweets, Sheikh Mohammed said: "On this day, a new chapter in our history begins with the launch of the first UAE Astronaut Programme, dedicated to sending four Emirati Astronauts into space.

"The people of the UAE will break new barriers; nothing can stand in the way of those who believe nothing is impossible."

He added: "Our ambitious goals are fuelled by dedicated people, who support us until, without hesitation or scepticism, we succeed. I invite young Emiratis to register for the UAE Astronaut Programme through the Mohammed bin Rashid Space Centre at the Mohammed bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC)."

Sheikh Mohammed said that the most competitive applicants will be selected to be ambassadors for the UAE in space exploration.

The UAE is investing in science programmes to help serve national interests in the future, actively participating in global space exploration, and exploring the prospects of human life in space, including the possibility of inhabiting other planets.

The UAE Astronauts Programme will support the UAE’s mission to become a hub for the space sector in the region and to become global leader in space exploration over the next 50 years.

Young Emiratis can register at www.mbrsc.ae/astronauts. Finalists will go through training in theory and science, as well as specialty qualification courses, over several months and in accordance with the highest international standards and requirements.

The top students will be screened before four Emirati astronauts will be selected to form the UAE’s Astronaut Team. The four will join the International Space Station on the first UAE space mission ever, to share knowledge and experience with other global astronauts.