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Bahrain-Egypt joint venture secures spot on Chinese lunar exploration mission

The partnership between Bahrain and Egypt stems from a MoU signed in 2022, symbolising the steadfast dedication of the strategic alliance to pushing the boundaries of scientific exploration.

The National Space Science Authority (NSSA) has announced a collaborative venture between Bahrain and Egypt in a global competition organised by the Chinese Space Agency, according to a report by the Daily Tribune.

The project has secured a coveted spot aboard the Chang’e-7 lunar exploration mission, slated for 2026. Its primary objective is to delve into the soil composition of the moon’s south pole, with a specific focus on identifying the presence of water ice.

Central to this initiative is the development, rigorous testing, and eventual deployment of a cutting-edge multispectral camera designed to meticulously analyse materials on the lunar surface. This accomplishment underscores the formidable capabilities of Arab nations in the realm of lunar exploration, showcasing the ability of regional talents to compete and excel on the international stage of space science.

The collaboration between Bahrain and Egypt traces its roots back to a Memorandum of Understanding signed in 2022, which outlines the strategic partnership’s dedication to pushing the boundaries of scientific exploration.

Dr Mohammed Ibrahim Al-Asiri, CEO of NSSA, lauded the achievement as a compelling testament to the potential of Arab cooperation in spearheading future space endeavours.

The collaboration between Bahrain and Egypt stems from a 2022 Memorandum of Understanding, which outlines the strategic partnership’s commitment to pushing scientific boundaries.

Dr Mohammed Ibrahim Al-Asiri, CEO of NSSA, praised the achievement as a testament to the potential of Arab cooperation in pioneering future space efforts.

In alignment with Dr Al-Asiri’s sentiments, Professor Dr Sherif Sedqy, CEO of the Egyptian Space Agency, emphasised the significance of the victory in bolstering international collaboration and propelling space exploration missions forward.

Dr Ayman Mahmoud, Director General of the Space Payloads Department at the Egyptian Space Agency, underscored the groundbreaking technology at the core of the project, poised to unlock invaluable insights into the moon’s resources.

Engineer Aisha Al Haram, Head of the Satellite Design Department at NSSA, highlighted the intricate technical complexities of the project and its potential to enhance Bahrain’s prowess in space exploration while contributing to future research and economic development opportunities.