HUMAN SPACE FLIGHT PROGRAM

The Saudi Space Agency launched the kingdom’s first sustainable Human Space Flight (HSF) program, which aims to prepare Saudi cadres to become professional astronauts. These astronauts will be launched on both short and long-stay missions to conduct research for the benefit of all humanity.

The research focus areas of the HSF program will not only benefit us on Earth but will enable future missions to the Moon and Mars. These focus areas include but are not limited to physical science, human health, biology, biotechnology, biopharma, Earth Science, in-space manufacturing, and technology development.

Additionally, these research opportunities will foster international collaboration further enhancing Saudi’s role and contributions globally.

The HSF Program is a strategic program that will enable the realization of Vision 2030 through growing Saudi’s technical human capital, diversifying the economy, and expanding sectors in Saudi.

The inaugural mission of this program (SSA-HSF1) was launched on May 21st, 2023. This was a historic mission for Saudi as it launched two astronauts, the first female, Rayyanah Barnawi, and the second male, Ali Alqarni, into space, to the International Space Station (ISS), at a 408 km altitude above Earth, on a short-stay mission, namely, 10 days. On this mission, the Saudi Space Agency engaged scientists and research institutes to develop eleven scientific microgravity research experiments focused on human health, cell science, and weather and climate science. In addition, three scientific outreach experiments were also performed engaging 12,000 students across 47 different locations in Saudi Arabia.

SSA-HSF1 Official Patch

The Official Patch of the kingdom’s scientific mission to the international space station (ISS) embodies its future aspirations.

 The round shape

The round shape

inspired by the famous window of the ISS, which reflects cooperation and communication between nations in space exploration.

 Two Rising Stars

Two Rising Stars

Representing the two Saudi astronauts, their ambitions, and aspirations towards progress and achievement.

14 Stars

14 Stars

Representing the number of experiments that the Saudi astronauts will conduct during their journey to be a symbol of progress in the nation’s skies.

 Lunching year

Lunching year

2023 indicates the year the Kingdom launched into space and the beginning of its journey in space exploration and achieving its scientific and technological aspirations.

KSA Flag

KSA Flag

Emphasizes national identity and belonging to the homeland.

KSA on the World Map

KSA on the World Map

The globe was drawn including details of KSA map, which shows the scientific development in the Kingdom at the global level.

Astronaut

Astronaut

Looking at Earth symbolizes the primary goal of the mission, which is to serve humanity and improve the quality of life on planet Earth.

Vision 2030 logo

Vision 2030 logo

Reflects the Kingdom’s role in promoting the development of science, research, and innovation.

Hover to explore logo info

Space Mission Information

ROCKET
  • ROCKET Falcon 9
  • Height 70 meters.
  • mission The mission to transport the spacecraft into the Orbit.
VEHICLE
  • VEHICLE Dragon
  • About First private spacecraft to transport humans to the ISS
  • Capacity The Capacity to carry 7 Astronauts.
VEHICLE LOAD
  • VEHICLE LOAD 4 Passengers
  • Info Including two Saudi astronauts Rayyana Barnawi and Ali Al-Qarni.
DESTINATION
  • DESTINATION The International Space Station (ISS)
  • About Assembly began on November 20, 1998, it’s a laboratory for research and studies.
  • Distance The ISS Is orbiting space 420 km above earth surface.
  • movement Orbits the Earth every 90 Minutes.

SSA-HSF1 Scientific Experiments

Our Astronauts

Ali Algarni Primary Crew More →
Rayyanah Barnawi Primary Crew More →
Ali Alghamdi Backup Crew More →
Mariam Fardous Backup Crew More →
Ali Alghamdi

Ali Al-Ghamdi

A Saudi astronaut and pilot, Ali has completed astronaut training programs, qualifying him for future space missions.

With over 11 years of experience in jet aviation, he has participated in numerous airshows.

Driven by his passion for flying, Ali is a strong advocate for space exploration and aims to inspire more Saudi youth to go beyond the boundaries of our planet.

He firmly believes that discipline is the key to success; while passion may mark the beginning of a journey, discipline ensures reaching the finish line.

Place of Birth: Baljurashi, Saudi Arabia.

Education: Bachelor’s Degree in Aeronautical Science.

Previous Profession: Captain Pilot.

Languages: Arabic, English, French, Spanish.

Hobbies: Football, swimming, chess, tennis, drawing, and reading.

Mariam Fardous

Mariam Fardous

A Saudi astronaut driven by her passion for science and exploration, Mariam aspires to inspire future generations to pursue their dreams and push the boundaries of what’s possible to serve humanity and improve quality of life.

She has completed astronaut training programs and is qualified to participate in future space missions. With over 13 years of experience in the medical field, Mariam possesses diverse practical skills.

Place of Birth: Makkah, Saudi Arabia.

Education: Master’s Degree in Epidemiology and Biostatistics.

Previous Profession: Medical Doctor.

Languages: Arabic, English, French.

Hobbies: Storytelling, mountain climbing, diving, paragliding, and volunteering.

Ali Algarni

Ali Al-Qarni

A Saudi astronaut and experienced pilot, Ali was part of the SSA-HSF1 mission crew that traveled to the International Space Station.

With over 12 years of experience flying F-15SA aircraft, Ali’s rigorous training, exceptional skill, and ability to execute tasks flawlessly have equipped him to conduct scientific experiments with high efficiency and precision, adhering to the required standards.

Place of Birth: Sabt Al-Alaya, Saudi Arabia.

Education: Bachelor’s Degree in Aeronautical Science.

Previous Profession: Fighter Pilot.

Languages: Arabic, English.

Hobbies: Collecting watches, diving, paragliding, sports, and a passion for learning

Rayyanah Barnawi

Rayyanah Barnawi

The first Saudi female astronaut and a crew member of the SSA-HSF1 mission to the International Space Station. Rayyanah brings over 9 years of experience in stem cell and tissue re-engineering.

Known for her passion and love for exploring new horizons, she has dedicated her professional career to enhancing scientific research protocols.

This passion led her to embark on conducting scientific experiments in a microgravity environment to serve her nation and humanity.

Place of Birth: Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.

Education: Master’s Degree in Biomedical Sciences.

Previous Profession: Research Scientist and Laboratory Specialist.

Languages: Arabic, English, Turkish, French, German.

Hobbies: Traveling, swimming, learning languages, and exploring world cultures.

MISSION MEDIA

KNOW MORE

FAQC image

Why Has The Kingdom Chosen Scientific Missions?

To Qualify Cadres At The Highest Level To Support The Objectives Of The National Space Strategy And The Ability To Conduct Their Research Independently In The Microgravity Environment And The Space Environment In General.

Partners

Future Partner

Neum

Strategic Partner

CST

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