Countries across the Arab world are gearing up to enter space. For example, Saudi Arabia recently contributed to a lunar communications relay satellite that was launched in support of China’s mission to land a robotic vehicle on the moon. The UAE, meanwhile, plans to launch its Amal mission to Mars in 2020, and is also searching for young future astronauts. Then there’s Algeria, Egypt and Morocco’s programmes, amongst others.
But what can the region learn from other territories that have more experience at present?
Avoid stagnation and keep pursuing new goals
At the 2018 World Government Summit, which was held in Dubai earlier this year, American astrophysicist, author, and science communicator Neil deGrasse Tyson reflected on his own experience in the US, stressing the importance of innovation in every mission planned.
“In the 1960s, every next space mission was more ambitious than the previous one. This kept the interest of the press and public,” he said.
Humans cannot be replaced by robots
The social capital received from sending humans on space missions is not achievable with robots. Humans are an essential part of space explorations, and according to Dan Lester – a Texas-based researcher in astronomy and aerospace engineering – they are profoundly important.
“This includes human senses, vision, hearing, touch, mobility and dexterity – exploration is about placing these things on other worlds.”
STEM is important for space
Artemis Westenberg, co-founder and president of Explore Mars, stressed the importance of STEM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics) education, stating that it creates critical thinkers, enabling the next generation of innovators.
Mental health is important
The psychological wellbeing of astronauts or those preparing to head to space should be the number one concern, says Franco Fenoglio, head of Human Spaceflight and Transportation Unit at Thales Alenia Space.
Besides food, “it is critical to improve human factors before heading to space, and improve biomechanical ergonomics, thermal comfort, light and lighting, as well as acoustics,” he stated, adding that challenges could include “crew psychology, environment, communications, logistics and supplies and, ultimately, the safe re-entry of the space shuttle.”
Commitment is key
Several failed attempts are never the end. Just ask Dr. Koppillil Radhakrishnan, former chairman of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), whose country succeeded in sending an operational mission to Mars in 2014. That’s a long way from the organisation’s genesis in a tiny fishing village in India in 1969.
“[ISRO] is guided by the philosophy that space research has a large role to play in the development of humanity.”
The future is female
And finally, according to former United States Air Force officer Cady Coleman: “We need to encourage women to step into this area. In my first Mars mission, I was the only female, but I could overcome challenges with the great support of my family.”