Abu Dhabi, August 17 (WAM) - The National Centre for Space Science and Technology at the United Arab Emirates University announced the successful launch of the "SEO" artificial satellite on board the Long March-2C rocket from the China Satellite Launch Center in the People’s Republic of China.

This achievement is part of the centre's ongoing efforts to develop national space projects that contribute to enhancing Emirati capabilities in the space sector and supporting the UAE’s vision towards leading the fields of science, technology, and innovation.

The "SEO" project extends the centre’s efforts to develop national competencies and enable Emirati researchers and engineers to gain advanced practical experience in designing, developing, and operating artificial satellites, in cooperation with a number of international partners.

This mission will support scientific research and technical applications related to sustainability and future development by providing data and information that supports environmental protection, natural resource management, and enhances planning efficiency and decision-making. The "SEO" mission also highlights the importance of employing modern space technologies to support national efforts linked to sustainability goals and inclusive development.

H.E. Engineer Salem بطي القبيسي, Director General of the UAE Space Agency, said that the successful launch of the "SEO" artificial satellite comes in line with the UAE’s vision and national space strategy, which aims to establish the country's position among global leaders in the space sector and enhance the contribution of advanced science and technology to support sustainable development and the knowledge economy.

He added that this task reflects the importance of integration between national and academic institutions in building an advanced space system that contributes to developing national competencies and enabling future generations to lead the future of the space sector.

For his part, Dr. Nabil Mohammed Al Bastaki, Director of the National Centre for Space Science and Technology, added that the ‘SEO’ project represents an extension of the Center's efforts in developing national space projects that contribute to building Emirati capabilities and enhancing the practical expertise of researchers and engineers in the fields of design, development, and operation of artificial satellites.

He expressed pride at the success of this mission, which reflects the technical and technological readiness level enjoyed by the center, along with the advanced infrastructure it possesses, including integration facilities, testing, and the ground station in Al Ain area.