ISS Calling Mauritius

Further to the successful implementation of the first Mauritian Satellite (MIR-SAT1) project (www.spacemauritius.com), the Mauritius Research and Innovation Council (MRIC), operating under the aegis of the Ministry of Information Technology, Communication and Innovation, signed a Framework Agreement with the Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC) in January 2023 in view of developing new projects and programs in the space/satellite fields.

As a first step towards the implementation of this Framework Agreement, on the 11th of May 2023 as from 15h00, the MRIC and the MBRSC jointly hosted a live conversation between the Emirati astronaut Dr Sultan Al Neyadi (who is currently on board the ISS) and students of the Republic of Mauritius. During this special event, Mauritian students from secondary schools around Mauritius and in Rodrigues aged between 13 and 17, asked questions to the astronaut live from the Sir Harilall Vaghjee Hall at Port-Louis.

The students were curious to know about the astronaut’s life on board the ISS and his daily activities and the challenges of living in space. The conversation lasted for around 20 minutes and was attended by 250 students from 59 schools and Universities in Mauritius. The event was also followed online by 80 students from secondary schools in Rodrigues. The conversation was livestreamed on NASA TV channel on YouTube and the MRIC YouTube Channel.

The Acting President of the Republic of Mauritius, H.E. Mr. Marie Cyril Eddy Boissézon, G.O.S.K. was the Chief Guest for the event. The Vice Prime Minister and Minister of Education, Tertiary Education, Science and Technology, Minister of Information Technology, Communication and Innovation and other Cabinet Ministers also attended the event.

H.E. Salem Humaid Al Marri, Director General of the MBRSC, along with a delegation comprising senior officials of the MBRSC also attended the event.

The event was an unforgettable experience for space enthusiasts, and anyone interested in learning more about the ISS and space. The MBRSC and MRIC hope that this event will ignite a passion for space activities and foster a culture of curiosity, innovation, and exploration among Mauritian students. The aim was to encourage the young Mauritian minds who are space enthusiasts to dream big and pursue their ambitions in the realm of space and beyond, thus paving the way for future Mauritian Space Scientists.