emirates7 - The Higher Colleges of Technology (HCT), in collaboration with the Mohammed bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC), is set to launch HCT-SAT1 this January, marking the first satellite designed and developed by HCT students.
This pioneering initiative represents a major milestone for the HCT system in space exploration. Over the course of a year, 34 students from diverse disciplines worked on the project under the guidance of MBRSC specialists and experts.
The achievement exemplifies a successful partnership aimed at equipping national talent with expertise in advanced sciences and future technologies.
Dr. Faisal Alayyan, President and CEO of HCT, remarked, “This collaboration with the Mohammed bin Rashid Space Centre underscores our commitment to preparing a new generation of Emirati leaders in space science and technology. Through this project, we are empowering our students to make meaningful contributions to the UAE’s expanding space sector and advancing the nation’s vision of becoming a global leader in space exploration.”
Dr. Alayyan added that the HCT-SAT1 mission serves as a prime example of applied education with practical, real-world outcomes. He highlighted the value of the partnership with MBRSC in enhancing educational programmes and providing students with the opportunity to collaborate with experts in the field, both locally and internationally.
The project drew contributions from students across various engineering disciplines, such as aeronautical sciences, airframe design, and electrical engineering, as well as media students who supported the project’s marketing efforts. Nine faculty members joined the team, collaborating with MBRSC experts throughout all stages of the project, including satellite design, assembly, testing, and launch.
Salem Humaid Al Marri, Director-General of MBRSC, described the collaboration as a pivotal step in strengthening the role of national educational institutions within the space sector. He highlighted that the project reflects MBRSC’s dedication to nurturing Emirati talent and developing human capital in advanced sciences.
He noted that the HCT-SAT1 project provided students with invaluable hands-on experience in satellite development and advanced project implementation, aligning with the UAE’s vision for innovation and scientific excellence. Furthermore, it showcased the capabilities of Emirati youth in working with cutting-edge technologies while emphasizing MBRSC’s commitment to fostering strategic partnerships that bolster the UAE’s reputation as a global hub for space research and development.
A team from HCT will travel to the United States later this month to participate in the satellite’s launch.
The project, announced in April 2024, involved the creation of HCT-SAT1, a nanosatellite for Earth observation. Developed by HCT students with supervision from MBRSC experts, the satellite underwent assembly, integration, rigorous testing, and preparations for launch.
This initiative also provided a comprehensive educational experience, introducing students and faculty to the “CubeSat” concept and advancing the integration of space technology into the academic sector. It marks another step toward strengthening the UAE’s position in space science and exploration.
This pioneering initiative represents a major milestone for the HCT system in space exploration. Over the course of a year, 34 students from diverse disciplines worked on the project under the guidance of MBRSC specialists and experts.
The achievement exemplifies a successful partnership aimed at equipping national talent with expertise in advanced sciences and future technologies.
Dr. Faisal Alayyan, President and CEO of HCT, remarked, “This collaboration with the Mohammed bin Rashid Space Centre underscores our commitment to preparing a new generation of Emirati leaders in space science and technology. Through this project, we are empowering our students to make meaningful contributions to the UAE’s expanding space sector and advancing the nation’s vision of becoming a global leader in space exploration.”
Dr. Alayyan added that the HCT-SAT1 mission serves as a prime example of applied education with practical, real-world outcomes. He highlighted the value of the partnership with MBRSC in enhancing educational programmes and providing students with the opportunity to collaborate with experts in the field, both locally and internationally.
The project drew contributions from students across various engineering disciplines, such as aeronautical sciences, airframe design, and electrical engineering, as well as media students who supported the project’s marketing efforts. Nine faculty members joined the team, collaborating with MBRSC experts throughout all stages of the project, including satellite design, assembly, testing, and launch.
Salem Humaid Al Marri, Director-General of MBRSC, described the collaboration as a pivotal step in strengthening the role of national educational institutions within the space sector. He highlighted that the project reflects MBRSC’s dedication to nurturing Emirati talent and developing human capital in advanced sciences.
He noted that the HCT-SAT1 project provided students with invaluable hands-on experience in satellite development and advanced project implementation, aligning with the UAE’s vision for innovation and scientific excellence. Furthermore, it showcased the capabilities of Emirati youth in working with cutting-edge technologies while emphasizing MBRSC’s commitment to fostering strategic partnerships that bolster the UAE’s reputation as a global hub for space research and development.
A team from HCT will travel to the United States later this month to participate in the satellite’s launch.
The project, announced in April 2024, involved the creation of HCT-SAT1, a nanosatellite for Earth observation. Developed by HCT students with supervision from MBRSC experts, the satellite underwent assembly, integration, rigorous testing, and preparations for launch.
This initiative also provided a comprehensive educational experience, introducing students and faculty to the “CubeSat” concept and advancing the integration of space technology into the academic sector. It marks another step toward strengthening the UAE’s position in space science and exploration.