Lessons Learned in the Creation of a Multi-disciplinary Space Studies Program in the UAE.
- Paper number
IAC-16,E1,4,4,x35788
- Coauthor
Mr. Carlos Niederstrasser, Orbital ATK, Inc., United States
- Year
2016
- Abstract
In 2015 Yahsat, the Masdar Institute of Science and Technology, and Orbital ATK established the first Master's level, advanced space studies program in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region. This program has two components: \begin{itemize}\item A 'Master of Science program with a concentration in Space Systems and Technology' with the goal of educating students and launching them into the future workforce of the UAE \item A hands-on CubeSat project designed to expose the students to the broader issues related to systems engineering, and provides them with invaluable experience\end{itemize} The program was officially announced in May 2015 in the presence of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, and opened up the the first group of students in September 2015. In this paper we discuss the process that led to the creation of this first-of-a-kind program, including the unique international partnership between academia and industry. We will also highlight some of the lessons learned, especially with regards to the interactions between the university and the industry partners. Special attention is paid to challenges encountered during the initial stages of the project, as well as the success of the first academic year completed in June 2016.- Abstract document
- Manuscript document
(absent)