The Moon Village Association (MVA), a worldwide non-profit dedicated to lunar exploration and settlement, has chosen the University of Dubai (UD) as the venue for this year’s International Moon Day (IMD) celebrations on July 20. It commemorates the 55th anniversary of the momentous Apollo 11 Moon landing and will highlight breakthroughs in lunar science, sustainable space exploration, and the UAE’s increasing participation in the international space economy.
Main Highlights of the Event
Theme:“Sustainable Lunar Exploration for Global Prosperity” – Highlighting global cooperation and the UAE’s role in upcoming Moon missions.
International Participation: Researchers, space agencies (including NASA, ESA, UAE Space Agency, and CNSA), and private sector executives will be debating lunar infrastructure, robotics, and human habitation.
UAE Space Aspirations: The event is in line with the UAE’s Moon Exploration Program, such as the Rashid Rover (planned for future missions) and the Lunar Gateway Station participation.
Academic & Industry Partnership: Workshops on space law, lunar resource utilization, and AI in space exploration will be conducted, with experts from MBRSC, Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre, and international institutions.
Why This Matters to the UAE
Consolidates the UAE’s status as a vanguard in space exploration with its Mars Mission (Hope Probe) and Astronaut Program.
Consolidates Dubai as a space innovation hub, building on the success of the Dubai Future Foundation and AI & Space Tech investments.
Promotes STEM education and youth involvement in space sciences.
International Moon Day Background
Created by the UN General Assembly in 2021 to celebrate Neil Armstrong & Buzz Aldrin’s Moon landing (July 20, 1969).
Seeks to encourage peaceful, sustainable lunar exploration according to the Artemis Accords, which the UAE joined in 2022.
What’s Next?
The University of Dubai will publish a comprehensive agenda, featuring public lectures, VR Moon mission simulations, and student competitions. Look out for announcements on new UAE-led Moon initiatives prior to the event.
