The UAE's MBZ-SAT satellite, developed by Emirati engineers at the Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC), has lifted off aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California.
The launch marks another milestone in the UAE’s ambitious space programme.
Liftoff! The Falcon 9 rocket, carrying MBZ-SAT, has launched.#MBZSAT pic.twitter.com/KzN8pUXMts
— MBR Space Centre (@MBRSpaceCentre) January 14, 2025
The Earth observation satellite MBZ-SAT, named in honour of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, was launched along with two CubeSats developed by universities in the UAE.
These include HCT-SAT 1, designed by students of the Higher Colleges of Technology under the supervision of experts at MBRSC, and Al Ain Sat-1 developed by the UAE University's National Space Science and Technology Centre.

ADNOC L&S vessel sustains damage following attack
H.H. Sheikh Khaled, H.H. Sheikh Hamdan discuss key national priorities
UAE conditionally approves new use of Ultomiris for kidney disease patients
H.H. Sheikh Hamdan approves Dubai Metro extension to Al Maktoum Airport
UAE Year Of Award celebrates stronger families, community values