A team from the National Center of Meteorology and Seismology (NCMS), headed by Executive Director H.E. Dr. Abdullah Ahmed Mandoos were received at The Emirates Institution for Advanced Science and Technology (EIAST) and met with the institution's executives headed by H.E. Yousuf Al Shaibani, Director General of EIAST. The NCMS delegation expressed their interest in collaborating with EIAST on satellite systems and technology specific to the field of meteorology.

"EIAST is always looking for ways to extend the technology we have developed and continue to develop, towards fields beyond space science," commented Al Shaibani during the NCMS visit.

"One of our aims for the institution is to benefit all industries in the UAE and help develop the nation further as a leading hub of business and technology. EIAST has so far been specialized in earth observation satellites; however, there areno meteorology satellites made specifically for the region, so institutions like the NCMS gather their weather, climate and environmental data from global sources.

"This could be an opportunity for EIAST to develop new systems and technology specific to their needs. We are very happy to welcome NCMS to the Institution and look at a genuine cooperation between both institutions, which we expect to bring results that will positively impact various fields."

H.E. Dr. Mandoos was equally enthused by the visit, saying, "We have been looking into a possible collaboration with EIAST for some time as we have been very impressed with what they have accomplished in such a short time since the launch of DubaiSat 1 and 2. One of the things we are most keen to learn about is the progress they are making on KhalifaSat and the ongoing development programs for Emirati engineers. The development of satellite technology for meteorology and seismology in the UAE is still in its infant stages and we at NCMS believe that EIAST's knowledge and expertise would benefit us greatly."

Dr. Mandoos and his team were briefed on various EIAST achievements and activities, including the latest developments on KhalifaSat, the first ever satellite to be developed and built completely by a team of Emirati engineers. The KhalifaSat project will be completed in EIAST's state-of-the-art satellite manufacturing facility prior to its projected launch in 2017.

EIAST was established by the Dubai Government in 2006 with the goal of promoting a culture of advanced scientific research and technology innovation in Dubai and the UAE, and enhancing technology innovation and scientific skills among UAE Nationals. It is mainly involved in outer space research and development, satellite manufacturing and systems development, space imaging, and ground station services and support for other satellites.