Emirati astronaut Mohammad Al Mulla has successfully completed the European Space Agency’s (ESA) CAVES training programme, in another proud milestone for the growing space ambition of the UAE. However, it is an elite simulation that prepares astronauts for real space missions by immersing them in the extreme and isolated environment of underground caves.
The Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC) announced this milestone on Thursday. However, this achievement marks a big step forward for the second batch of astronauts in the UAE. Moreover, it reinforces the presence in the global space exploration campaigns.
A True Test of Human Endurance and Teamwork
Credit – Instagram/Astro_almulla
The CAVES programme is short for the Cooperative Adventure for Valuing and Exercising human behaviour and performance Skills. However, it is widely regarded as one of the challenging courses in the world. Yet, the training was conducted in the complex cave system of Molise and Campania, Italy. Moreover, it pushes participants to their physical and mental limits while highlighting teamwork, mental limits while emphasizing teamwork, leadership, and problem-solving.
A former helicopter pilot and NASA Astronaut Candidate Class of 2024 graduate, Al Mulla joined an international crew of astronauts from ESA, NASA, and Japan’s JAXA during the multi-day expedition. Moreover, the whole team lived and worked underground, which was cut off from the outside world. Hence, it simulates the extreme isolation of space.
Mohammad Al Mulla: Living in Total Darkness
Credit – Instagram/Astro_almulla
During the intensive training, Al Mulla and his fellow astronauts faced challenges strikingly similar to those encountered in orbit or in deep space missions. Moreover, they handled pitch-black cave tunnels, performed scientific research, and mapped uncharted terrains. However, they also manage all of these with fatigue, stress, and limited resources.
The training was a combination of technical briefings and a multi-day underground expedition. Hence, it tests resilience, adaptability, and decision-making under pressure for each participant. Plus, the astronauts lost the natural 24-hour day-night rhythm derived from sunlight during the training, which regulates human sleep and body condition. However, the condition mirrors the conditions of long-duration spaceflight.
This environment needed astronauts to depend entirely on artificial light, limited supplies, and teamwork, while constantly maintaining safety protocols in narrow, confined passages.
Preparing for Real Space Missions
The CAVES training goes beyond physical endurance. Moreover, it shapes the ability of astronauts to perform high-risk and high-stakes tasks where communication, leadership, and trust can make the difference between success and failure.
According to MBRSC, this experience has provided Al Mulla with the important skills for future missions. However, the following are examples of such skills:
- Efficient communication under stress
- Team coordination in confined environments
- Rapid decision-making under uncertainty
- Scientific observation and data collection in extreme conditions
These abilities are important for the upcoming lunar and Martian missions, where astronauts will need to operate autonomously. However, such missions might also go without direct contact with mission control.
A Symbol of International Collaboration
The CAVE programme of ESA is a platform for global collaboration in human spaceflights. However, astronauts are required to depend on each other by sharing expertise and cultural perspectives to achieve common goals.
By completing this prestigious training, Mohammad Al Mulla has strengthened the partnership of the UAE with major space agencies and contributed to the spirit of co-operation that defines modern space exploration.
A New Chapter in the UAE’s Space Journey
The UAE Space program continues to inspire the Arab world and beyond. Hazzaa Al Mansoori was the first Emirati to reach space. After that, Dr. Sultan Al Neyadi conducted the detailed, groundbreaking research aboard the International Space Station. Now, the latest achievement of Al Mulla is another giant leap for the scientific and exploratory vision of the Emirates.
Read more:
Novak Djokovic Battles Heat and History to Reach Shanghai Masters Semi-Finals at 38
Dubai Mall to Host Global Fashion Festival with Masterclasses and Awards in January 2026
