UAE launches space centre to oversee Mars mission preparation

Dubai: The United Arab Emirates (UAE) on Saturday launched a space centre to oversee the country's preparation for the Mars exploration mission.

UAE's Vice President and Prime Minister, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, issued a resolution establishing the Mohammed bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC), according to UAE's official WAM news agency.

According to the resolution, the MBRSC is mandated to develop research, projects and studies on space, in a way that will support UAE's drive for advancing this sector, and for building national capabilities related to the space knowledge and science.

UAE's focus on becoming a space hub is part of the country's strategy to prepare for a time when oil reserves run out, according to the Xinhua news agency.