Emirati Astronaut Sultan AlNeyadi Set to Return to Earth from the International Space Station
Emirati astronaut Sultan AlNeyadi is scheduled to begin his journey back to Earth from the International Space Station (ISS) on Saturday evening at 5:05 p.m. UAE time. This marks the end of his six-month mission, making him the first Arab astronaut to complete a long-term space mission and a spacewalk.
AlNeyadi, along with NASA astronauts Stephen Bowen and Woody Hoburg, and Roscosmos cosmonaut Andrey Fedyaev, took off on March 2 from the Kennedy Space Center in Florida aboard NASA’s SpaceX Crew-6. Throughout his time on board the ISS, AlNeyadi conducted over 200 experiments.
In an interview with Arab News journalist Lama Alhamawi while on board the ISS, AlNeyadi shared his experiences and reflections. The full interview can be read on the Arab News website.
During his return journey, AlNeyadi will travel on the SpaceX Dragon capsule. The capsule will undock from the ISS, undergo a deorbit burn, re-enter the Earth’s atmosphere, and finally make a splashdown. The entire process will be broadcast live on the NASA website and the Mohammed bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC) website.
AlNeyadi expressed his deep bond with his fellow crew members in a message posted on X (formerly Twitter). He described how they started as crewmates but have now become like brothers. He emphasized the shared expertise, traditions, and cultures they experienced together during their time on the ISS.
Upon arrival on Earth, AlNeyadi will undergo several days of medical testing, evaluation, and mission debriefs in the United States before returning home to the UAE.
The achievements of Emirati astronauts like Sultan AlNeyadi highlight the UAE’s commitment to space exploration and scientific advancements. The UAE has been actively investing in its space program, aiming to establish itself as a leading player in the space industry.
AlNeyadi’s successful completion of a long-term space mission and a spacewalk is a significant milestone for the Arab world. It inspires future generations of Arab astronauts and showcases the region’s potential in the field of space exploration.
The UAE’s space program has been gaining momentum in recent years. In 2019, the UAE sent its first astronaut, Hazza Al Mansouri, to the ISS. This marked a historic moment for the country and the Arab world as a whole. Al Mansouri’s mission paved the way for future Emirati astronauts like Sultan AlNeyadi to further contribute to space research and exploration.
The UAE’s space ambitions extend beyond crewed missions to the ISS. The country has plans to send an unmanned mission, the Emirates Mars Mission, to Mars. The mission aims to study the Martian atmosphere and climate, providing valuable insights into the planet’s history and potential for sustaining life.
The return of Sultan AlNeyadi from the ISS is a moment of pride for the UAE and the entire Arab world. It signifies the country’s commitment to pushing boundaries and exploring new frontiers. As AlNeyadi prepares to return home, his experiences and achievements will undoubtedly inspire future generations of Emirati astronauts and contribute to the growth of the UAE’s space program.
In conclusion, Emirati astronaut Sultan AlNeyadi’s return from the International Space Station marks the successful completion of his six-month mission. His achievements as the first Arab astronaut to complete a long-term space mission and a spacewalk are a testament to the UAE’s commitment to space exploration. As he undergoes medical testing and evaluation upon his return, his experiences will continue to inspire and pave the way for future Emirati astronauts. The UAE’s space program is poised for further growth and advancements, solidifying its position as a key player in the global space industry.