Dubai to host 4th Young Professionals in Space meet

Imran Mojib, Special Correspondent

The Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC), Dubai, will host the 4th Young Professionals in Space Conference (YPS) 2019, from Nov.4-6 at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre, Dubai. The UAE has become the first Arab country to host this global conference.

YPS is an initiative launched by the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) to bring scientists, practitioners, engineers and leaders of the space industry and agencies together in a single venue to discuss recent research breakthroughs, technical advances, existing opportunities and emerging space technologies. The UAE, represented by MBRSC, won the right to host the 4th YPS, during the 3rd YPS held last year in Barcelona, Spain.

Yousuf Hamad Al Shaibani, Director General of MBRSC, highlighted that hosting the 4th YPS reinforces the UAE’s position in the field of space, and Emirati youth’s capabilities to make major achievements in this promising sector. He stressed that this international conference is an opportunity for youth interested in space to form a comprehensive vision of space science, engineering and technology. It also allows them to meet and communicate with professionals and experts from around the world to understand the requirements of the space industry and learn about the latest technologies and opportunities in the industry.

“Hosting YPS in Dubai is part of MBRSC’s strategy to support the vision of our wise leadership to develop Emirati youth to promote technical innovation and scientific research in space science and technology, and enhance the role of advanced space technologies in finding solutions to the challenges facing humanity. The conference also contributes to achieving the UAE’s ambitious strategic plans in space exploration, as well as preparing national cadres that contribute to the development of the space sector as one of the new development sectors in the national economy,” added Al Shaibani.

Adnan Al Rais, Mars 2117 Programme Manager, said, “By hosting this conference, we aim to attract local and international expertise in one place to enrich knowledge of space science and technology among Emirati and Arab youth, as well as those interested in space science. The conference allows youth to discuss key topics in the space industry, such as modern trends and research in space exploration, utilising Artificial Intelligence (AI) for earth observation, among others.”

“The conference, which is being held for the first time in an Arab country, is a Mars 2117 initiative. Mars 2117 sets out the objective to the UAE’s leading engineers and scientists to explore the Red Planet and find solutions to the challenges facing the Earth by studying the possibility of living in space,” added Al Rais.

Saeed Al Mansoori, Chair of Young Professionals in Space Conference 2019 said, “YPS conference is a great opportunity for young people and space professionals to share ideas and learn about the latest technologies and opportunities in the industry, by meeting scientists, engineers, and space professionals.”

The conference addresses several topics, including UAE & Space, Employing space observation technology to the protection of our environment, Lifecycle of Cubesat design and development, AI for earth observation, and Launch and observation of earth observation satellites, including information about the command and control room, and the ground station.

Those interested to attend can register on https://ypinspace.ae/.

MBRSC was established by the Dubai Government to serve as one of the main pillars to drive the establishment of the knowledge economy and sustainable development in the UAE. It is a scientific centre that specialises in space science and advanced technology. Launching ambitious projects, the centre works to develop generations of Emirati engineers according to the highest scientific standards.

MBRSC is looking forward to contributing in ways that enrich human knowledge and support scientific development worldwide. The centre has strong ties with internationally influential organisations. It is keen to establish relationships with space agencies and the world’s most prestigious universities and faculties that specialise in space science.