Akbar Chulliyil

Background

About Akbar Chulliyil

After nearly two decades behind the lens at the Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre, I’ve had the privilege of documenting some of the UAE’s most historic milestones in space exploration. My career spans 19+ years of specialized photography, capturing astronauts, satellite launches, mission control operations, high-profile events, and the everyday moments that shape the nation’s space journey.I am passionate about transforming complex missions into compelling visual stories that inspire curiosity, pride, and progress. Working closely with engineers, scientists, astronauts, and leadership teams has taught me to anticipate critical moments, adapt quickly in high-pressure environments, and deliver imagery that is both technically precise and emotionally powerful.My work is driven by curiosity, discipline, and a love for storytelling through visuals. Whether it’s documenting the intensity of a launch, the calm focus inside mission control, or the human side of space exploration, I strive to create images that preserve history and ignite imagination.Always open to creative collaboration, learning, and contributing to the growing story of space exploration in the UAE and beyond.