UAE engineer selected for NASA’s groundbreaking Mars simulation

Captain Engineer Obaid Al-Suwaidi from UAE Ministry of Defense has been selected for a very exciting 45 day Mars simulation at NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston. This project falls under UAE analogue programwho studies human adaptability to the unique challenges posed by space travel.
Impressive qualifications
Al Suwaidi has a strong reputation for having made significant contributions to the development of participating defense sector teams in the UAE. He was awarded a Bachelor of Science in Engineering from Western Sydney University and also held two Master’s degrees – one in Civil and Environmental Engineering. engineer at George Washington University and another in project management at Abu Dhabi University. In addition, he is believed to spend his free time horse riding, swimming or running.

Understanding HERA
The Human Research Analogue (HERA) is a high-tech facility that simulates long-term research. space missions explore how people will react and adapt to isolation and captivity. In the simulation, the crew will go on a “walk” through Mars in virtual reality, as well as grow vegetables and shrimp, as well as many other activities, experiences and challenges that can be encountered in real missions.
Understanding Human Dynamics
One of the major parts of the simulation involves communication latency with Mission Control, given that the time required for communication during a trip to Mars can vary. This is an important part because it provides insight into how psychological and operational issues can affect astronauts.

According to Assistant Director General for Space Operations and Exploration at the Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Center (MBRSC), Al-Suwaidi was one of the astronauts selected for the space mission, which is considered an important step in understanding the human factors that can interfere during long-duration space missions. . This data will be extremely useful for developing additional strategies for deeper space exploration.
Collaborative research for future missions

This is believed to be the fourth rotation of volunteers for this important experiment. The team will conduct 18 experiments related to physiological, behavioral and psychological responses in a simulated environment. Such information will undoubtedly prove very valuable in improving the performance and sustainability of astronauts on long-duration missions.
Projects like this will help strengthen the UAE’s status in space exploration around the world, advance science and inspire future generations.