UAE’s space mission is making a comeback, and it’s stronger than before. Remember, the launch of the UAE’s Lunar Mission in 2023? Well, it seems like the region is planning on repeating history. The UAE is all set to launch another Moon Mission in 2026, & here’s all we need to know about it.
UAE’s 2026 Moon Mission: Rashid Rover 2 Heads For The Far Side
According to a report mentioned in Gulf News, Rashid Rover 2 has officially touched down in the US for its next phase before launch. Built by the Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre, this machine is gearing up for a 2026 trip aboard Firefly Aerospace’s Blue Ghost lander. And yes, this time it’s going for the far side of the moon. The side we never see. The side that looks peaceful from Earth, but is basically the lunar version of rocky off-road terrain. Seems like the UAE’s a bit of a challenge.
Why The Far Side Of The Moon?
Ever heard about other countries trying to explore the far side? Well, we haven’t. It’s because its surface is rough and its crust is thicker. It’s not exactly the kind of place where you casually drop a rover. But that’s also why it’s important.
So why is the UAE aiming for it? Hidden in that rugged terrain are clues about the moon’s early years. The UAE wants data that scientists worldwide can use to understand how the moon formed and its features.
A Shared Ride With Global Heavyweights
And it’s not just Rashid Rover 2, which is going alone to explore the far side of the Moon. It will ride with Blue Ghost under NASA’s Commercial Lunar Payload Services programme. NASA, the European Space Agency, and Australia are sending their payloads too. Firefly’s Elytra vehicle will stay in lunar orbit, keeping the communication lines open and the radio systems working so the rover has a clear path during landing.
Also Read: You Can Send Your Name To The Moon With The Artemis II Mission Of NASA! Here’s How
Lessons From The First Try
Back in 2023, Rashid Rover 1 came heartbreakingly close before losing contact moments before landing. But the team didn’t sit around; instead, they went back to fix, test and build something better and smarter. Rashid Rover 2 carries better tech, sharper capabilities, and a tighter mission plan.
The countdown to 2026 is already ticking. And if this UAE’s Moon mission lands the way everyone hopes, the UAE will etch its name deeper into lunar history.
Cover Image Courtesy: Firefly Elytra/Website
For more such snackable content, interesting discoveries and the latest updates on food, travel and experiences in your city, download the Curly Tales App. Download HERE.