Hope Probe: UAE's Mars mission proves how women shine bright in space sector

Dubai - Women comprise 34 per cent of the mission and 80% of its science team.

The UAE marked the International Day of Women and Girls in Science on Thursday at a perfect time — just days after its Hope Probe reached Mars, a historical achievement made possible by a woman-led team.

UAE celebrates Hope Probe success with cheers, applause

“The Emirates Mars Mission (EMM) set an unprecedented standard for the inclusion of women, which challenged global conventions on women’s participation in the space sector: Women comprise 34 per cent of the mission and 80% of its science team,” said Sarah bint Yousef Al Amiri, Minister of State for Advanced Technology, Chairwoman of the UAE Space Agency and Science Lead of the EMM.

“Today, on International Day of Women and Girls in Science, I stand with the UAE in its continued commitment to the inclusion and participation of women in all areas of society. From our homes, to our communities and workplaces, women’s daily extraordinary contributions are crucial and cannot be overlooked.”

To mark the occasion, Expo 2020 Dubai is teaming up with the UAE Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology, Unesco, and the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs to promote gender equality in science.

Expo 2020 Dubai will bring the world together to highlight the importance of women and girls in science, celebrating leading women in the field, forging new partnerships, and boosting opportunities for women’s participation via a rich and diverse programme.