Saudi Space Agency Launches 'BioGravity' Initiative

The initiative is overseen by astronaut Rayyana Barnawi, the first Arab Muslim female astronaut. SPA
The initiative is overseen by astronaut Rayyana Barnawi, the first Arab Muslim female astronaut. SPA
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Saudi Space Agency Launches 'BioGravity' Initiative

The initiative is overseen by astronaut Rayyana Barnawi, the first Arab Muslim female astronaut. SPA
The initiative is overseen by astronaut Rayyana Barnawi, the first Arab Muslim female astronaut. SPA

The Saudi Space Agency (SSA) has announced the of launch of the "BioGravity" initiative, aiming to empower scientists and researchers in the field of biomedical sciences to conduct innovative research in microgravity.

The initiative seeks to enhance scientific collaboration between local and international entities and establish the Kingdom's position in space research for the benefit of humanity.

According to the SSA, the initiative is overseen by astronaut Rayyana Barnawi, the first Arab Muslim female astronaut, and focuses on creating a specialized research community in biomedical microgravity studies. It includes a select group of scientists and researchers from various universities, scientific centers, and relevant private-sector organizations in the Kingdom. It aims to broaden local capabilities and build specialized scientists in the field of biomedical sciences.

The initiative, SSA said, intends to develop human capital, strengthen scientific and research capabilities, and inspire future generations in the Kingdom. It seeks to maximize business opportunities in the space sector by supporting space missions through advanced research, thereby enhancing the Kingdom's scientific standing on both regional and global scales.
The SSA, through this initiative, aims to contribute to improving global health by developing advanced biomedical technologies through microgravity research. Its commitment aligns with the Kingdom's efforts to foster a culture of innovation and to develop and enhance national capabilities, thus fulfilling its ambitious aspirations in space research as outlined in the Saudi Vision 2030.



Royal Commission for AlUla Highlights Sustainability Endeavors at COP16

The event is the first of its kind to be held in the Middle East and North Africa region. - SPA
The event is the first of its kind to be held in the Middle East and North Africa region. - SPA
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Royal Commission for AlUla Highlights Sustainability Endeavors at COP16

The event is the first of its kind to be held in the Middle East and North Africa region. - SPA
The event is the first of its kind to be held in the Middle East and North Africa region. - SPA

The Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU) is taking part in the 16th Conference of the Parties (COP16) of the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification, through the Saudi Green Initiative Gallery, to highlight a variety of its projects and initiatives that reinforce Saudi Arabia's environmental and sustainability agenda, while underscoring its role in the comprehensive and sustainable regeneration of AlUla.
The RCU will present 10 key initiatives, including the development of a circular carbon economy via the agricultural waste management program, the planting of 500,000 trees and plants, the establishment of nature reserves, and the Arabian leopard conservation and breeding program, SPA reported.
RCU's senior management team will also engage in several seminars and discussions to talk about the achievements, challenges, and opportunities related to AlUla's regeneration.
Taking place in Riyadh from December 2 to 13, COP16 marks the convention's 30th anniversary.