UAE astronaut Dr Sultan Al Neyadi has embarked on a six-month mission as part of Crew-6 from the International Space Station (ISS).
This mission holds a major significance to the UAE as it aims to be a source of inspiration and motivation for the entire region to make progress in space exploration. This mission aligns with the UAE’s objective to expand its economy and promote innovation in this field.
This is the second launch attempt for the mission, and will also make Al Neyadi the first Arab long-duration astronaut mission.
As preparations were being made to board the spacecraft, Emirati astronaut Sultan Al Neyadi expressed his readiness to embark on the space mission, saying “Yalla, we are going today.”
The crew, including Al Neyadi as the prime astronaut and Hazzaa Al Mansoori as a backup, were chauffeured to the launch pad in Teslas and are expected to soon board the Dragon capsule.
Al Neyadi also expressed his confidence in a successful mission.
“Today we are on time and it will be, with God’s grace, a successful mission and launch,” he said.
Additionally, he plans to share dates with his colleagues on the International Space Station during Ramadan, which falls within the mission’s six-month duration. This significant mission will keep Al Neyadi and his team in outer space throughout Ramadan.
On the eve of his journey to the ISS, Emirati astronaut Sultan Al Neyadi spoke with UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, prior to the first launch.
During a video conversation shared by Emirates News Agency (WAM), Al Neyadi expressed his excitement for this historic moment. The President wished him safety and protection wherever he may be, and expressed anticipation for his safe return.
“May God protect you wherever you may be and may you return safe and sound. We are looking forward to your return,” Sheikh Mohamed said.
Here’s how you can watch the launch live:
