SA to build its own satellite

The Minister of Science and Technology announced on Monday 3 October that several African countries will be working closely together to establish a satellite constellation to create an African Network of low earth orbiting (LEO) satellites.

South Africa's first satellite, SUNSAT, which was developed by Stellenbosch University, was successfully launched by the American space agency, NASA, in February 1999. The University will manage the South African small satellite programme on behalf of the Department of Science and Technology. They will be receiving funding for an integrated capacity building training programme in satellite engineering and the development of the South African Small Low Earth Orbiting (LEO) satellite.

Mr Mosibudi Mangena said that substantial progress has been made to plan an African satellite constellation intended to serve the African Continent in critical areas where earth observation can make a difference to the planning, preparedness and responsiveness of African Countries.

The LEO satellite and subsequent application of world-class space assets are capable of sustaining South Africa's leadership in space technology in the world. It will also assist Africa in its quest for independent space technology, the minister said.

SA AMSAT has been involved in discussions with the Department of Science and Technology to include an amateur payload to serve the needs of Amateurs on the African continent. "Now that the announcement has been made we will intensify our discussions with the various role-players", SA AMSAT President, Hans van de Groenendaal ZS6AKV said.

"At this time I call on Radio Amateurs to send in ideas of what payload they believe will serve the African Amateur Radio Community best.

Mail ideas to saamsat@intekom.co.za.

Other recent stories..

Other News Stories

• Get our news headlines for your website - click here
• Submit your news story - click here