EGA celebrates the launch of MBZ-SAT satellite made with Celestial solar aluminium

Emirates Global Aluminium wears another hat of success on the occasion of the landmark launch of MBZ-SAT, as the region's most advanced satellite contains EGA's Celestial solar aluminium.

Launched on Tuesday, January 14, from the Space Launch Complex 4E at the Vandenberg Space Force Base in California, US, MBZ-SAT was developed by the Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC), using EGA's Celestial solar aluminium produced in Jebel Ali smelter.

Aluminium has been a critical material used in space technologies since the launch of the first satellite in 1957, owing to its unique properties like lightweight, strength and resistance to corrosion.

Aligned with the 'Make it in the Emirates' programme, EGA and MBRSC's collaboration represents a remarkable milestone in the space sector. 'Make it in the Emirates' campaign was launched in 2021, inviting local and international investors, innovators, and developers to join the UAE on its journey of industrial growth and support the UAE's AED 300 billion GDP ambition by 2031.

Abdulnasser Bin Kalban, Chief Executive Officer of Emirates Global Aluminium, said: "Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre's use of EGA's CelestiAL solar aluminium for MBZ-SAT shows how sustainable innovation is shaping the future of both space technology and our nation's industrial ecosystem. EGA was the first company in the world to produce aluminium commercially using solar power, significantly reducing emissions. We are proud that EGA's solar aluminium is now heading to the stars."

H.E. Salem Humaid AlMarri, Director General, MBRSC, said: "The successful launch of MBZ-SAT is a testament to the UAE's vision of pushing the boundaries of innovation and technological excellence. At MBRSC, we are always committed to contributing to the diversification and growth of the UAE's economy through strategic collaborations. By working with partners such as EGA, we have demonstrated how the coming together of expertise and shared ambitions can drive the nation's space sector forward. By integrating locally produced components, we are not only enhancing the capabilities of our space missions but also reinforcing the UAE's position as a hub for pioneering advancements and global partnerships."