The headquarters are based in Al Khawaneej in Dubai.
Two small satellites will be launched each year that would host the latest technology built by private companies or university students it has been announced.
Under the Payload Hosting Initiative (PHI), engineers at the Mohammed bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC) would construct the satellite and companies can add their technology that can be tested in space.
The first demo satellite, called PHI-Demo, is already in development with the second satellite, PHI-1, being constructed in collaboration with the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs.
The @MBRSpaceCentre announces the development of PHI-Demo, a 12U modular satellite platform under the Payload Hosting Initiative (PHI), in partnership with OQ Technology and SteamJet. pic.twitter.com/caeWsI9E1p
— Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) January 19, 2022
Speaking on the announcement, director general of the space centre, Salem Al Marri said the PHI will provide an opportunity for other countries to deploy their own satellites.
He said: “The collaboration and innovation that have gone into making the development of the PHI-Demo under the Payload Hosting Initiative today not only advances the use of satellite-related technologies but also presents an opportunity for entities and countries alike to deploy and operate their own satellites in space.
“The results of these efforts will further place the UAE at the forefront of space innovation and assist in making incredible advancements in science and technology”.
The satellites will be operated from a ground station at the MBRSC headquarters in Al Khawaneej in Dubai.
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