How do you personally and professionally relate to water and/or space technologies?

As an Aerospace Engineer, I design and optimize systems that support Earth observation, particularly through satellites that monitor land and water use. Growing up in Egypt a country where water is a scarce and strategic resource deeply shaped my understanding of the importance of sustainable water management. Professionally, I am committed to ensuring that space technologies serve real-world development needs, especially in arid and semi-arid regions.

What motivated you to pursue a bachelor’s degree in Aircraft and Rocket Construction and Design?

From a young age, I was fascinated by the stars and the engineering that allows us to reach them. My academic journey was driven by curiosity and a desire to apply engineering solutions to critical challenges. Egypt’s growing investment in space science made this path both exciting and purposeful.

Can you tell us about your current position as an Aerospace Engineer at the Egyptian Space Agency? Could you specifically also expand on Attitude Orbit and Control Subsystem (AOCS) hardware? 

At the Egyptian Space Agency, I work on the Attitude and Orbit Control Subsystem (AOCS), which is responsible for controlling a satellite’s orientation and trajectory. AOCS is a critical subsystem that integrates sensors such as sun sensors, star trackers, and gyroscopes, along with control algorithms, to ensure precise pointing and stability during orbital manoeuvres. This precision is essential for Earth observation missions, especially those monitoring water resources and agricultural zones.

AOCS is closely related to the Attitude Determination and Control Subsystem (ADCS), which refers to the broader system that determines and controls the satellite's orientation. In many contexts, the terms AOCS and ADCS are used interchangeably, though AOCS emphasizes both orbital and attitude control.

In your work as an Aerospace Engineer, how do you and your team assess user needs of people using satellite applications? I envision that as especially challenging because one must plan many years ahead.

We engage with stakeholders across sectors such as agriculture, environment, and water, including relevant ministries like the Egyptian Ministry of Water Resources and Irrigation and the Ministry of Agriculture and Land Reclamation. This engagement helps us identify long-term data needs and align satellite missions with national priorities.
To address the challenge of long-term planning, we use scenario planning and climate modelling. For example, one scenario we explored involved predicting water demand in desert reclamation areas like Toshka was based on projected population growth and agricultural expansion. Another scenario assessed the impact of climate change on Nile flow patterns. These scenarios helped us identify evolving needs such as higher-frequency satellite imagery and improved water quality monitoring.

Can you share some exciting recent developments in satellite technology that are relevant for water management?

Compact, high-resolution multi-spectral sensors are now being integrated into micro-satellites, enabling more frequent and detailed monitoring of inland water bodies. These sensors help track water quality, sedimentation, and algal blooms which are key indicators for sustainable water governance. 

What satellite missions relevant for water monitoring are currently being planned by the Egyptian Space Agency?

We are in the early planning stages of satellite missions focused on agriculture and water monitoring, particularly in reclaimed desert lands. These missions will support strategic projects like the Toshka development and Nile Basin planning. 

The planned missions are expected to carry multi-spectral and thermal infrared sensors to monitor vegetation health, soil moisture, and surface water dynamics. These instruments will provide critical data for irrigation planning and crop yield forecasting.

How can space technologies be used for monitoring and managing water resources?

Remote sensing provides essential data on water availability, usage, and movement. For example, radar can map groundwater resources, while multi-spectral imagery monitors surface water bodies. Satellites offer a cost-effective way to manage water across vast and remote areas, especially in regions with limited ground-based monitoring infrastructure.

What are the challenges in using space technologies for climate monitoring?

One major challenge is data interpretation translating satellite data into actionable, ground-level decisions. There is also a need for stronger integration with local infrastructure, such as irrigation networks and water distribution systems. Capacity-building in data analytics is crucial across user sectors. For instance, training agricultural extension officers to interpret satellite-based soil moisture data can significantly improve irrigation efficiency.

What do you see as key issues of water resource management that need to be addressed in Egypt and globally before it is too late?

Key issues include trans-boundary water governance, inefficient irrigation systems, and water pollution. In Egypt, maximizing water use efficiency and investing in water recycling are top priorities. Institutions like the National Water Research Centre and the Egyptian Water Regulatory Agency are collaborating on initiatives to modernize irrigation systems and promote water reuse. Globally, stronger cooperation and climate-adaptive strategies are urgently needed.

How do space technologies contribute to sustainable agriculture and water quality monitoring? Can you tell us more about the case study of Toshka Lakes in Egypt?

In the Toshka region, satellite imagery has been instrumental in tracking the expansion of man-made lakes and surrounding agricultural areas. We analyze vegetation indices and water levels to inform crop planning and irrigation strategies. This has made Toshka a successful case study in desert reclamation.
At the UN/Austria Symposium 2023 on “Space for Climate Action,” I presented a case study analysing Toshka Lake’s development phases. Using time-series satellite imagery and vegetation indices like NDVI, I assessed land use changes and water body dynamics. The findings highlighted the effectiveness of satellite data in supporting sustainable land and water management in arid regions.

What do you need to innovate?

Innovation requires time, interdisciplinary collaboration, and open access to data. When engineers, policymakers, and end-users work together toward a shared goal and when tools and data are accessible innovation thrives.

What is your favourite aggregate state of water?

Liquid—for its versatility, vitality, and flow. It reminds me of adaptability, a trait essential in both engineering and life.