The National Space Science Agency signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Orbital Space earlier this year, showcasing the cooperation between the two parties. The MoU was signed by National Space Science Agency chief executive Dr. Mohamed Al Aseeri and Gulf Orbital Space chief executive Dr. Bassam Alfeeli. The signing of this memorandum came as a result of the fruitful cooperation with Gulf Orbital Space since the middle of last year, and this memorandum will provide the two parties with the opportunity to exchange knowledge and experience in related fields, build capacity and commit to implementing joint initiatives and projects.

Dr. Al Aseeri said: We are very proud of this cooperation with this distinguished Gulf company specialized in the space sector, which has recorded many impressive successes in a very short time. This memorandum between the two parties comes fulfilling to the agency’s goals in spreading awareness among the youth on the importance of space science and applications, through the use of simplified and innovative methods that attract the interests of today’s youth, by raising their passion for entering into unique challenges, which have been prepared according to scientific standards that enable the participants to acquire new skills and improve their current skills. In addition, it will enhance scientific research, supports innovation, and raises levels of creativity. The activities and events that will be carried out in cooperation with Orbital Space will have a great impact in creating a clear perception among the participants about space science and its applications.

Dr. Alfeeli added: We are proud of this cooperation, and we highly value the confidence of the National Space Science Agency in providing the opportunity for Orbital Space to contribute in encouraging youth and building human capacity in the space field. We hope that this cooperation will provide more opportunities for young people to acquire new skills that enables them to benefit from the applications of space science and technology in creating innovative and creative solutions that support the national strategic goals.

NSSA announced the first cooperation, the (Code in Space) challenge, which will be launched during the month of February for a period of 6 weeks, where students from all over the world can submit proposals for their software to be sent and implemented in space through a computing system, that is physically present on board a real satellite orbiting the Earth.

This challenge aims in increasing the awareness of space science and its technologies, specifically satellite sector. And encouraging youth in finding solutions to the challenges encountered in space sector. The details of this initiative and participation procedure will be announced through a virtual seminar, noting that the invitation is open to high school and university students, faculty members, researchers, and those interested in this field.