Two Saudi astronauts recently joined the UAE's Sultan Al Neyadi aboard the International Space Station (ISS), increasing the Arab population onboard to three. Rayyanah Barnawi, a research scientist, and Ali Al Qarni, a fighter pilot, embarked on an eight-day science mission, marking Saudi Arabia's first presence in space since 1985 when Prince Sultan bin Salman flew on NASA's Space Shuttle.
Their arrival, part of the Axiom 2 mission, occurred when the SpaceX Dragon capsule, carrying the Saudis and two American astronauts, Peggy Whitson and Jeff Shoffner, docked at the ISS at 5:12 PM GST. Ms. Barnawi, expressing her awe from the capsule, remarked on the incredible sensation of viewing Earth and experiencing microgravity.
Ms. Barnawi, 33, not only made history as the first Saudi woman in space but also delivered an emotional speech during a welcoming ceremony on the ISS, expressing pride in representing her country and the broader region. She emphasized her role in embodying the hopes and aspirations of her fellow citizens and expressed gratitude for the extensive training she received from experienced astronauts.
Dr. Al Neyadi, conducting a six-month mission on the ISS, warmly welcomed his Arab counterparts, offering traditional dates as a gesture of hospitality. His preparations for the Saudi astronauts' arrival included logistical arrangements, such as relocating a Dragon capsule to free up docking space for their spacecraft.
The presence of Saudi and Emirati astronauts on the ISS marks a significant milestone in the region's space exploration endeavors, reflecting growing collaboration and advancements in space technology. The joint mission underscores the shared commitment to scientific research and exploration, with astronauts from different nations working together to push the boundaries of human knowledge and capability in space.
