Highlights
- UAE astronaut Sultan Al Neyadi has returned to Earth after an extraordinary six-month mission aboard the International Space Station (ISS).
- His safe splashdown took place in the Atlantic Ocean, off the coast of Jacksonville, Florida, marking the end of the UAE’s second human space flight and the Arab world’s first extended mission.
- This mission included the first-ever spacewalk by an Arab astronaut, a significant milestone.
- Sultan Al Neyadi and his fellow astronauts conducted over 200 science experiments aboard the ISS, contributing to vital research for space exploration.
Astronaut Sultan Al Neyadi Safely Returns
UAE astronaut Sultan Al Neyadi has returned to Earth, after completing a historic six-month mission aboard the International Space Station. A SpaceX Dragon capsule carrying him and three fellow astronauts splashed down in the Atlantic, off the coast of Jacksonville, Florida, at 8.17am, UAE time, on Monday.
This was the UAE’s second human space flight and the Arab world’s first extended mission – as well as the first time an Arab astronaut performed a spacewalk.
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Reactions and Celebrations:
- President Sheikh Mohamed congratulated Sultan Al Neyadi on his return, praising the team’s contributions to space exploration.
- Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai, emphasized how Al Neyadi’s achievements have inspired millions of Arab youth.
Post-Mission Responsibilities:
- While back on Earth, Sultan Al Neyadi’s mission is not over. He will collaborate with researchers to complete the science investigations he participated in during his space journey.
- The recovery process will include medical tests to assess the impact of microgravity on his physical and mental health.
- Al Neyadi will undergo a mandatory recovery program in Houston, Texas, to help him readjust to Earth’s gravity, combat bone density and muscle loss, and regain his full physical capabilities.
Future of UAE’s Space Endeavors:
- The UAE plans to continue its space exploration efforts. It currently has four members in its astronaut corps, including the first Emirati in space, Hazza Al Mansouri, Nora Al Matrooshi, and Mohammed Al Mulla.
- UAE officials aim to send astronauts into space every two to three years, with ongoing training for future missions led by Nasa.
- The nation’s aspirations extend to lunar exploration, with ambitions to send astronauts to the Moon in the future.
Sultan Al Neyadi’s successful return from space marks a momentous achievement for the UAE’s space program and inspires hope for continued advancements in space exploration.
