In a major push for its deep-space agenda, the Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC) has joined forces with the Technology Innovation Institute (TII) and ASPIRE, both part of Abu Dhabi’s Advanced Technology Research Council. The strategic collaboration, announced at Dubai Airshow 2025, will focus on co-developing a sophisticated AI-powered navigation subsystem for future rovers of the Emirates Lunar Mission.
Pioneering Autonomous Lunar Navigation
The partnership will produce one of the UAE’s most advanced spacecraft subsystems to date. The system features a radiation-tolerant computer paired with cutting-edge AI software, designed to give a lunar rover vision-based autonomous mobility.
Using onboard cameras, the AI will enable the rover to perceive its surroundings, identify potential hazards, and navigate challenging lunar terrain independently. This capability is critical for enhancing the safety and operational efficiency of missions in one of space’s most unforgiving environments.
Advancing Sovereign Deep-Space Capabilities
This initiative represents a significant milestone in the UAE’s journey to build sovereign technologies for space exploration, aligning with the national Space Strategy 2030.
Dr. Hamad AlMarzooqi, Project Manager of the Emirates Lunar Mission at MBRSC, stated, “MBRSC’s collaboration with TII and ASPIRE is a significant step forward in our commitment to building technologies that elevate the scientific value and safety of future missions. Enabling a rover to perceive and interpret its surroundings in real time is a capability that will define the next phase of exploration on the lunar surface.”
Dr. Elias Tsoutsanis, Chief Researcher of the Propulsion and Space Research Center at TII, added, “This collaboration marks a major milestone in strengthening the UAE’s ability to design, test, and qualify sovereign spacecraft subsystems. By advancing AI-driven, vision-based autonomy, we are contributing core technologies that will support future lunar and interplanetary missions.”
Andrew Strefford, Executive Director at ASPIRE, emphasized the project’s national importance. “Our collaboration with MBRSC and TII on the navigation subsystem demonstrates the strength of national partnerships in delivering high-impact, sovereign capabilities with global relevance. This programme embodies our mission to empower the UAE’s scientific and engineering talent.”
The Emirates Lunar Mission is supported by the ICT Fund of the Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority (TDRA), reinforcing the UAE’s commitment to funding advanced R&D in critical technology sectors.
About Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre
The Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC) is central to the UAE’s ambition to become a leading nation in space exploration and technology. Based in Dubai, MBRSC is responsible for the UAE National Space Programme, which includes the Emirates Mars Mission, the Astronaut Programme, the Mars 2117 Programme, and the Emirates Lunar Mission. The centre is committed to developing national capabilities and promoting scientific advancement through space science and research.
Source: Zawya
