The UAE’s Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC) is partnering with US-based Firefly Aerospace to become the second nation to land on the far side of the moon. The Emirates Lunar Mission’s Rashid Rover 2 has completed construction and initial testing in Dubai and has now been shipped to the US for final tests ahead of its planned early 2026 launch. Firefly, the first commercial company to successfully land on the Moon, will carry the UAE rover as part of its upcoming Blue Ghost Mission 2.
Why This Matters
The Rashid Rover 2 will gather valuable data on the lunar surface, advancing the science needed for future Moon missions. This collaboration reflects the growing partnership between the UAE and US in space, especially through joint efforts like the Artemis Accords. By working together on ambitious lunar missions, both nations are driving innovation in space science and technology and opening new opportunities for the next generation of commercial space explorers.
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