NASA is looking for more allies in its upcoming deeper space explorations including the Journey to Mars in 2030. The agency signed an Aeronautic Cooperation Agreement with the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
Both the United States and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) agreed on enhanced cooperation when it comes to aeronautic research and the exploration and use of the outer space. The intent is to use airspace and beyond-Earth territory for peaceful projects to benefit humanity.
UAE Space Agency Chairman Dr. Khalifa Al Romaithi signed the agreement with NASA Administrator Charles Bolden in Abu Dhabi on June 12.
"NASA is leading an ambitious journey to Mars that includes partnerships with the private sector and many international partners," said NASA Administrator Charles Bolden, in a press release. "I am confident this new framework agreement with the UAE Space Agency will help advance this journey, as well as other endeavors in the peaceful exploration of outer space," Bolden added.
The first target of the partnership is the exploration of Mars, according to a report by The Verge.
The partnership between the U.S. and the oil-rich nation of UAE appeared strange or unlikely to some, but both nations agreed to explore the outer space together for the benefit of mankind.
Aside from space explorations, the two nations might also get involved in ground-based research in the future. One notable clause of the agreement is the exchange of scientific data, scientists, engineers and experiences on "relevant regulatory frameworks."
"We at the UAE Space Agency genuinely welcome the opportunity to collaborate and work with the USA and NASA in the fields of aeronautics, space science, and the peaceful exploration of outer space toward the common goal of fostering the well-being of humankind," said UAE Space Agency Chairman Khalif Al Romaithi, in a statement published by Space News.