How Practical Engineering Programs Prepare Students for Global Space Missions
Securing a position on an international space mission requires more than just high grades; it demands hands-on technical proficiency and the ability to apply theoretical knowledge to high-stakes, real-world problems. Shafaq Mandha, a BEng (Hons) Computer Systems Engineering student from the Class of 2026 at Middlesex University Dubai, recently demonstrated this exact combination of skills. Selected from a highly competitive pool of talent across the UAE, Shafaq has been chosen to participate in ORBITA-26, an international satellite mission organized by Lab of Future in collaboration with the Future of Education in Russia.
This selection highlights a growing trend in the UAE: universities are moving beyond traditional lecture-based teaching to provide students with direct pathways into global aerospace and technology sectors. For aspiring engineers, understanding how to leverage university resources, faculty expertise, and external competitions is crucial for career advancement. Shafaq’s journey from a university classroom in the UAE to preparing for a satellite launch in Moscow provides a clear blueprint for how students can maximize their academic experience.
Schedule a free consultation to learn more about how engineering programmes can shape your career trajectory in aerospace and technology.
Understand the Technical Demands of the ORBITA-26 Space Mission
The ORBITA-26 programme, now in its second season, is designed to push students past theoretical exercises into authentic aerospace engineering. Participants are not simply observing; they are actively designing, building, and integrating a functioning satellite. The UAE team will ultimately travel to Moscow, Russia, to represent the country and launch their satellite into orbit.
To accomplish this, students must develop a robust understanding of several complex disciplines. The curriculum covered during the mission includes:
- CubeSat and Satellite Systems: Understanding the architecture and subsystems required for small satellite operations.
- Robotics and Electronics: Designing and soldering physical components that can withstand the harsh conditions of space.
- Sensor Integration: Implementing hardware that collects and transmits vital data from the satellite to ground stations.
- C++ Programming for Space Applications: Writing efficient, low-level code to manage satellite operations, a critical skill given the processing and memory constraints of orbital hardware.
Training for ORBITA-26 began in July 2026 at Lab of Future’s Space Science, Tech and Research Lab in Dubai. Under the guidance of space engineers and international experts, students spend months in intensive development before the final tournament in Russia. The stakes are high, and the pressure is real—in its first season, the UAE team placed second globally, setting a high benchmark for Shafaq and her cohort.
Why Middlesex University Dubai Stands Out for Computer Systems Engineering
Shafaq’s selection for this international space mission is not an isolated event but rather a direct result of the ecosystem built within the Computer Engineering and Informatics department at Middlesex University Dubai. The university has intentionally structured its programmes to support students who wish to engage in advanced, industry-relevant research.
Access to Specialized Facilities and Labs
A critical differentiator for students at Middlesex University Dubai is access to the STARS Lab and the Centre of Excellence for Foresight and Emerging Technologies. These facilities provide one of the region’s most advanced hands-on space engineering programmes. Instead of waiting until graduate school to use professional-grade equipment, undergraduate students are encouraged to prototype, test, and refine their engineering projects early in their academic careers.
Faculty Mentorship and Industry Connections
The transition from student to viable candidate for an international space mission requires strong mentorship. Shafaq’s participation in ORBITA-26 is actively supported by Professor Fehmida Hussain, Head of the Computer Engineering and Informatics Department and Founder of the Middlesex Innovation Hub (MIH), and Dr. Judhi Prasetyo, Senior Lecturer and Head & Founder of STARS Lab. Faculty members with established industry connections can direct students toward high-impact opportunities, write compelling recommendations, and provide the technical oversight necessary to ensure student projects meet international standards.
Explore our related articles for further reading on student innovations and technological advancements at Middlesex University Dubai.
Build a Strong Profile for Aerospace and Tech Careers in the UAE
For students currently studying or considering a degree in the UAE, Shafaq’s background offers actionable insights into building a competitive profile. Being selected for a programme like ORBITA-26 does not happen overnight. It is the result of a sustained, strategic effort to engage with the broader scientific community.
Participate in International Competitions Early
Before ORBITA-26, Shafaq won a competition run jointly by the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA) and the Saudi Space Agency. Entering prestigious competitions forces students to adhere to strict guidelines, meet deadlines, and present their work to panels of experts. These experiences build resilience and professional communication skills that standard coursework often cannot provide.
Engage in Active Research Campaigns
In addition to her coursework, Shafaq is currently participating in a NASA-affiliated asteroid search campaign alongside other Computer Engineering and Informatics (CEI) students. Contributing to actual scientific data collection demonstrates a student’s ability to handle real datasets and contribute to the global body of scientific knowledge. Aspiring engineers should seek out faculty-led research projects and volunteer their time to gain this critical experience.
Contribute to Technical Workshops
Teaching and presenting at technical workshops is an excellent way to solidify your own understanding of complex topics while demonstrating leadership. Active participation in the university’s technical community signals to programme leaders and external partners that a student is deeply committed to their professional development.
Have questions? Write to us! We can help you identify the best engineering pathways and extracurricular opportunities to match your career goals.
Navigate the Future of Space Engineering in the UAE
The UAE’s investment in the space sector—from the Mars Mission to the establishment of the UAE Space Agency—has created a domestic demand for highly skilled aerospace engineers. However, the industry is inherently global. Missions like ORBITA-26 prove that UAE-based students are not just competing locally; they are being recognized on an international stage, working alongside Russian aerospace engineers and representing the nation in global tournaments.
A BEng (Hons) in Computer Systems Engineering provides the foundational knowledge required for this industry. The curriculum typically covers embedded systems, hardware-software integration, and advanced programming—all of which are directly applicable to satellite design and space systems engineering. Students who pair this degree with practical lab experience and international competition experience position themselves at the forefront of a rapidly expanding sector.
As Shafaq moves into the ORBITA-26 development phase, working toward the final tournament in Moscow, her progress serves as a case study for incoming students. The goal is no longer just to pass exams, but to build a portfolio of work that can withstand the scrutiny of international space organizations.
Submit your application today to begin your academic journey in Computer Systems Engineering and position yourself for global opportunities.
Key Takeaways for Aspiring Engineers
Shafaq Mandha’s selection for the ORBITA-26 international space mission to Russia underscores the quality of engineering education available in the UAE. By choosing a programme that prioritizes practical application, securing mentorship from experienced faculty, and actively pursuing external research and competitions, students can transition seamlessly from the classroom to the global aerospace industry.
To achieve similar success, focus on mastering foundational programming and electronics skills, seek out university labs that offer hands-on projects, and apply to international competitions whenever possible. The infrastructure and support systems are in place at institutions like Middlesex University Dubai; the next step requires student initiative and a willingness to tackle complex, real-world engineering challenges.
Share your experiences in the comments below if you have participated in engineering competitions or space research projects.
