Setting May 21 as the date for the launch of the two Saudi astronauts into space on a scientific journey

Weather of Arabia - The two Saudi astronauts, Rayana Barnawi, the first Saudi and Arab Muslim woman astronaut, and Ali Al-Qarni, who is also the first Saudi astronaut to the International Space Station (ISS), will set off on May 21, on a scientific journey, which represents a historic event for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and inaugurates a new phase for Saudi Arabia in the field of space.

The Saudi Space Authority said: This trip comes within the framework of the Kingdom’s program for astronauts, which was launched on September 22, 2022, and includes conducting 14 pioneering scientific research experiments in a microgravity environment, which will contribute to providing answers that will empower humans through the expansion of health research in addition to Protecting the planet by applying scientific experiments, some of which are being carried out for the first time in the world on board the station.

The research results also enhance the Kingdom's global position in the field of space exploration and service to humanity, and confirm the role of Saudi research centers in making an impact in a number of priority areas, such as health, sustainability and space technology, in a way that contributes to achieving the goals of Saudi Vision 2030.

It is noteworthy that the Crown Prince, Prime Minister and Chairman of the Supreme Council for Space, Prince Muhammad bin Salman bin Abdulaziz, had received the two Saudi astronauts, Rayana Bernawi and Ali Al-Qarni, and wished them success in the scientific journey and a safe return to the homeland, referring to the high hopes pinned on them as ambassadors and representatives. For home on the International Space Station.

This flight places Saudi Arabia as one of the few countries in the world that can send two astronauts of the same nationality aboard the International Space Station at the same time, within the framework of the Kingdom’s program for astronauts to build national capabilities in the field of scientific trips to space, and to benefit from the promising opportunities it presents. The space sector and its industry globally.