Abu Dhabi Research Center to Create Propulsion Center to Boost UAE Space Ambitions

The Abu Dhabi Research and Development Center is poised to boost the UAE’s burgeoning space program.

The Advanced Technology Research Council will set up a propulsion center to help put the nation on the fast track in the global space race.

The propulsion research center will adopt technological advancements with the aim of making spacecraft faster and farther than ever before, as well as improving their fuel efficiency and carbon emissions.

The cutting-edge strategy aims to consolidate the UAE’s growing status as a leading player in the space sector.

The country has made huge strides in recent years, from sending its first astronaut to the International Space Station to sending the historic Hope Probe on a successful journey to Mars – a first for the Arab world.

A mission to the Moon is expected to take off next year, while a long-term plan to explore the asteroid belt and fly over Venus in 2028 is already taking shape.

From now on, the nerve center of the capital for future innovation hopes to take its lofty ambitions even higher.

“There was initial skepticism about a young entity’s ability to do what many established research centers failed to do – attract global talent and innovative patent solutions right here to give the country a greater autonomy in the high-tech space, “said Faisal Al. Bannai, ATRC secretary general, when the research center opened just over a year ago.

Two other research centers will also be opened as part of a grand vision to drive the development of the country for decades to come.

An alternative energy research center will focus on water security and improving technology applications as part of a growing push to convert utility grids to renewable energy.

And building on the UAE’s R&D capabilities in genetic engineering, biomaterials and autonomous devices, the new biotechnology research center will focus on advancements in healthcare, food and agriculture.

The state-of-the-art center already has seven operating laboratories in areas such as quantum computing – where construction of the Middle East’s first quantum computer is underway – and cryptography.

Abu Dhabi’s applied research initiatives are a critical part of the UAE’s efforts to diversify from dependence on oil exports and develop a knowledge-based economy.

Mr. Al Bannai also announced his intention to expand ATRC’s applied research pillar, the Institute of Technological Innovation.

In its first year, TII’s research centers signed 65 global partnership agreements with 37 universities, research centers and industry players, and filed five patents, essential to protect new ideas and bring them to market.

The centers employ 101 Emirati researchers and associate scientists.

The advent of artificial intelligence, quantum computing and more sophisticated cybersecurity threats means that nations around the world are concerned about the development of independent technologies – and the United Arab Emirates is no exception.

Key designs and innovation for the country’s progress will be supported by VentureOne, the new business arm of ATRC.

It will aim to ensure that the country’s best ideas become a reality by bringing them to market quickly while protecting intellectual property.

Mr. Al Bannai said ATRC’s plans are in line with the UAE 50’s Principles and the UAE’s 50 Initiatives plans, a series of programs aimed at boosting economic growth and preparing the country for a changing future. fast.

Updated: January 5, 2022, 2:18 PM