History doesn't just reside in books; it unfolds in real-time, as emphasized by Nora Al Matroushi, the first Emirati female astronaut. She highlighted that it's an integral part of daily life, showcasing what becomes possible when ambition and opportunity intersect.
During Day 1 of the Global Women's Forum in Dubai, Al Matroushi stated, "I am fortunate to live in a small and young country where 'history' isn’t confined to the pages of books." The UAE enables you to witness its transformation firsthand, observing its groundbreaking achievements, its trailblazers, and its iconic figures unfold before your eyes. Here, the extraordinary feels accessible and deeply personal.
Al Matroushi is the first Arab woman to graduate from NASA's astronaut training program, making her space-ready. She was recognized by Forbes in its list of five Arab women who made history in 2021. "You might encounter an astronaut at your favorite café, bump into an Olympic athlete in a park, or engage in a conversation with an entrepreneur shaping the future of industries here. In the UAE, greatness isn't elusive. It's interwoven into the daily fabric of life and serves as a testament to what's achievable when ambition and opportunity converge," she added.
Drawing from her experiences, the astronaut underscored how the Arab world is pushing the limits of what's considered possible, driving technological innovation, cultural progress, and personal growth. "This is being led by the UAE and other nations in the region. We're uniting humanity in the shared pursuit of understanding, reminding ourselves that we're all connected under the same expansive sky. Throughout history, Arab astronomers have crafted numerous instruments to measure and comprehend the sky, guiding our lives here."
Al Matroushi reflected on how, in the 21st century, Arab and Muslim astronauts, astronomers, and space researchers are making substantial contributions to the space sector, building on the rich legacy of their predecessors while advancing scientific discovery and exploration. "Their accomplishments not only honor the traditions of innovation and scholarship but also inspire future generations to push the boundaries of space exploration. In just a few short years, the UAE has evolved from a newcomer in the space industry to a global leader."
The UAE has launched the Hope Probe, which successfully reached Mars and is currently orbiting the Red Planet, marking a historic achievement for both the Arab world and humanity. The nation has also pioneered the UAE astronaut program, sending two of its own into space, launched numerous satellites, and built rovers to explore the moon's surface. These achievements underscore the UAE's dedication to fostering a knowledge-based economy and inspiring generations to dream.
Al Matroushi also emphasized that the journey isn't just about reaching new heights but also about creating a legacy that empowers its people and builds a "sustainable future" for humanity. "Now, as we contribute to the Artemis program and the Emirates airlock for Gateway, a lunar Space Station, we're playing a crucial role in the international effort to explore the moon and venture beyond where no human has gone before."
Source link: https://www.khaleejtimes.com
