"Mohammed bin Rashid Space" Announcing the success of a new series of tests on the Rashid 2 explorer
Dubai, December 11 / WAM / The Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Center announced its success in completing a new series of advanced tests on the Rashid 2 explorer in the United States of America, in cooperation with Firefly Aerospace, as part of the ongoing preparations to launch a new Emirati mission to the far side of the moon, as part of the Emirates Moon Exploration Project in 2026.
The tests included examining the electrical, mechanical and software systems between the explorer and the Blue Ghost lunar lander, affiliated with Firefly Aerospace, to ensure full integration between the two vehicles, in addition to wireless communication tests between them.
The project team also worked side by side with the company’s engineers to carry out field experiments to simulate the explorer’s exit from the lander, with the aim of ensuring the success of its landing on the moon’s surface, and its ability to adapt to various operational scenarios.
Completing these tests is a major step to verify the readiness of integration between the Rashid 2 explorer and the lander, ensuring that tasks are carried out smoothly during the flight and after reaching the surface of the moon.
Dr. Hamad Al Marzouqi, Director of the Emirates Lunar Exploration Project, confirmed that this stage represents a pivotal station in the mission’s path, noting that cooperation with Firefly Aerospace reflects a shared commitment to precision and innovation, and embodies the UAE’s vision of pushing the boundaries of scientific exploration, and enhancing its presence in global efforts to explore the moon.
The Rashid 2 explorer will be sent to the far side of the moon aboard the Blue Ghost vehicle as part of the Blue Ghost 2 mission in 2026, which represents Firefly’s second lunar mission after Blue Ghost 1, with the participation of payloads from Australia, the European Space Agency, and NASA.
The explorer will carry a set of advanced scientific instruments to study geology, thermal conditions, soil properties, and analyze the atmosphere of photoelectrons on the surface of the moon, which will enhance understanding of available resources and support future exploration plans.
For her part, Farah Zuberi, Director of the Spacecraft Mission Department at Firefly, confirmed that the Blue Ghost 2 mission has today become a broad international cooperation platform, noting that the Rashid 2 explorer’s successful passing of all tests represents a major step towards transporting it to the surface of the moon and discovering new insights into its far side.
It is noteworthy that the Emirates Moon Exploration Project is funded by the Communications and Information Technology Sector Development Fund of the Communications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority, in support of the research and development process in the UAE.
- For more: Follow Khaleejion 24 Arabic, Khaleejion 24 English, Khaleejion 24 Live, and for social media follow us on Facebook and Twitter
