The MBR Explorer is a planned uncrewed spacecraft proposed under the Emirates Mission to the Asteroid Belt.[1][2] It is named in recognition of the foundational role driving the creation and growth of the UAE Space Program played by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the vice president and the prime minister of UAE.[3]
The mission to explore the asteroid belt was announced by the United Arab Emirates Space Agency in May 2023, and the launch is planned for March 2028.[4][5][6]
The spacecraft will weigh around 2.8 tonnes and will travel at an average speed of 33,000 km/h.[7]
The MBR Explorer will visit seven asteroids: 10253 Westerwald, 623 Chimaera, 13294 Rockox, (88055) 2000 VA28, (23871) 1998 RC76, (59980) 1999 SG6, in a 5-billion-kilometre total journey,[3][8] and will attempt to land on its final asteroid, 269 Justitia in 2034.[7]
The spacecraft will also drop off a small lander to set down on Justitia's surface.[5]