Landmarks in the UAE are on red alert for the Hope probe's historic journey to Mars.
Dubai Frame, the emirate's Museum of the Future, Dubai Canal and Dhayah Fort in Ras Al Khaimah are among the attractions that will be bathed in red each night until the probe's planned arrival in Mars orbit on February 9.
The Hope probe will attempt to enter the Red Planet's orbit at 7.42pm GST, in the Arab world's maiden mission to Mars.
While the mission has gone smoothly since its launch on July 20 last year, the most challenging part of the journey is fast approaching.
Statistics show that only 50 per cent of Mars missions succeed, with orbit insertion being one of the most complex stages.
It requires the spacecraft to decelerate incredibly quickly to be captured by the planet’s gravity. Because of an 11-minute communication delay between mission control and the orbiter, Hope will carry out the process autonomously.
The craft will use its six thrusters to propel itself into the orbit, but if two or more of the thrusters fail during the attempt, it will mean mission failure. Hope has only one shot at orbit insertion.
The National visits Dubai's mission control – in pictures
