Alhamdulillah: Abu Dhabi Scientists Develop and Test Rocket Engine for Future Space Missions

Alhamdulillah, researchers in Abu Dhabi have successfully designed, built, and test-fired a liquid rocket engine that may one day help launch satellites, lunar landers, and even missions to Mars. This effort was led by engineers and researchers at the Technology Innovation Institute (TII) as part of the UAE's vision to become a regional center for spacecraft technology. Dr. Elias Tsoutsanis, chief researcher, shared that one of the toughest challenges was the limited testing facilities available for their new 250-newton liquid rocket thruster, which they completed after a year of hard work. "Designing, building, and firing this engine in such a short time was a big challenge, especially since it’s the UAE's first liquid rocket program," he said. The team even created their own testing setup to speed things up and partnered with experts in the UK to conduct over 50 test firings without delays. The project used green propellants instead of harmful substances like hydrazine to ensure safety and environmental responsibility, reflecting the UAE’s commitment to innovation with care. The engine is intended for various uses, including adjusting satellite orbits and future exploration missions requiring precise control, such as landing on the Moon or Mars. While the UAE already has the Hope Probe orbiting Mars and previous lunar rover attempts, this engine development marks a significant step towards greater self-reliance in space technology. The team plans to build more powerful engines and eventually work on cryogenic propulsion systems for launching spacecraft. May Allah bless and guide these efforts towards success and benefit for all humanity. Ameen.