Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC) has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with SpaceData, a startup based in Tokyo that specializes in research and development aimed at merging the realms of space and digital technology. This collaboration is set to establish two essential digital twin solutions. A digital twin serves as a virtual model or replica of a real-world object, system, or process, facilitating entities in testing real-life scenarios and forecasting outcomes to inform smarter decision-making.
Lunar digital twin platform for exploration
As outlined in the MoU, SpaceData will craft a high-fidelity lunar digital twin platform dedicated to space exploration, while also providing a detailed Earth-based digital twin platform to boost economic initiatives. For the Emirates Lunar Mission, SpaceData will create a simulation environment that utilizes MBRSC’s rover observation data, enhancing the efficiency and accuracy of forthcoming lunar explorations, Dubai Media Office reported. Additionally, SpaceData will develop a digital twin environment aimed at training UAE astronauts for lunar exploration. This advanced simulation will replicate the conditions of the lunar surface, offering comprehensive three-dimensional spatial and physical environmental data. Such training is poised to elevate the capabilities of UAE astronauts, ensuring that exploration activities are both safe and efficient.
Enhancing urban development through digital twin technology
Furthermore, SpaceData will produce a highly detailed digital twin of Dubai’s urban landscape. This initiative aims to stimulate tourism and economic growth by providing immersive, digital experiences of the city. The platform will facilitate virtual tourism, overcoming geographical and temporal barriers, and unlocking new avenues for global tourism demand. Moreover, by integrating satellite and meteorological data, SpaceData will develop a disaster prediction digital twin specifically for Dubai, concentrating on large-scale disaster simulations to enhance safety measures. With Dubai currently undergoing extensive urban development, this innovative solution will address safety risks associated with climate challenges while supporting sustainable growth.
Read more: MBRSC details first long-duration Arab astronaut mission
Supporting Dubai’s vision for sustainable innovation and growth
Adnan AlRais, assistant director general of the Space Operations and Exploration Sector at MBRSC, stated, “The partnership between the Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre and SpaceData is a step toward integrating advanced digital twin technologies into our space exploration initiatives. This collaboration will enable us to enhance the precision and efficiency of our lunar missions, provide immersive training environments for our astronauts, and support Dubai’s ambitious vision for sustainable economic growth through innovative digital platforms. Together, we are not only shaping the future of space exploration but also redefining how cutting-edge technologies can drive progress and unlock new opportunities for humanity.”
Atsushi Takata, executive vice president of SpaceData, remarked, “This international partnership with the Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre represents a milestone in our journey to make space exploration more accessible and impactful through advanced digital twin technologies. By integrating our innovative solutions with the UAE’s ambitious space initiatives, we aim to empower new possibilities for economic development on Earth and scientific discovery and exploration on the Moon. Together with MBRSC, we are excited to push the boundaries of what is possible—both in orbit and beyond!”
This collaboration underscores MBRSC’s ongoing dedication to nurturing international partnerships that drive scientific progress, technological innovation, and sustainable growth.
