Noora AlMatrooshi, the first Emirati female astronaut, has set her sights on a groundbreaking goal: to be the astronaut who plants the UAE flag on the moon. In a recent talk with students at the American Academy for Girls in Dubai, AlMatrooshi shared her aspirations and commitment to inspiring young Emiratis, especially girls, to pursue careers in space exploration, reads a Khaleej Times report.
Reflecting on her journey, AlMatrooshi emphasized that "space exploration is no longer limited to men," underscoring the expanding role of women in this traditionally male-dominated field. She encouraged girls to take full advantage of the opportunities offered by the UAE’s leadership and its space programme, urging them to “work hard, stay committed, and serve their country in all fields."
In addition to her lunar ambitions, AlMatrooshi is focused on contributing to future missions to Mars. As part of her ongoing training, she studies geology to help astronauts analyze rock samples that could unlock key insights into the history of the red planet.
A Groundbreaking Path to Space AlMatrooshi’s path to space began long before the UAE’s astronaut programme was established. With a mechanical engineering background, she was inspired by her family to pursue her dreams. In 2021, she and her colleague, Mohammed AlMulla, were selected for the second batch of the UAE Astronaut Programme. Their training included sessions at NASA’s Johnson Space Centre, where they learned everything from spacewalks to robotic arm systems and leadership skills.
“The impact I want to leave on girls is to motivate them to engage with the UAE space programme,” AlMatrooshi told Khaleej Times. “Our country provides them with opportunities, and they must be prepared to seize them.”
UAE’s Growing Space Ambitions AlMatrooshi’s work extends beyond lunar exploration. The UAE is currently the fifth partner in NASA’s ‘Lunar Gateway’ program, a space station set to orbit the moon. As part of this project, the UAE is responsible for developing the airlock module. AlMatrooshi’s training also includes collaborations with international space agencies like NASA, JAXA, CSA, and ESA, all working together on upcoming missions.
Encouraging Future Leaders AlMatrooshi’s pioneering role as the first Emirati female astronaut has made a lasting impression on the students of the American Academy for Girls. At a recent event, three students honored AlMatrooshi as their honorary house leader, admiring her bravery and independence.
"It was truly empowering because, especially as girls, we usually get intimidated to go out there into a male-dominated world," said Alia Saleh, one of the students. Inspired by AlMatrooshi’s courage, the students are now more confident in pursuing their own ambitions. Whether aiming to work in sustainability, education, healthcare, or engineering, they are motivated to challenge societal expectations and step out of their comfort zones.
AlMatrooshi’s journey continues to inspire the next generation of Emirati leaders, showing them that no dream is too big and no frontier is too far.
Bd-pratidin English/ Jisan
