The Ghana Space Science and Technology Institute has announced exciting news.
Ghana is planning to launch a rocket into space soon! However, this ambitious goal will require partnerships with other countries that are members of the International Astronomical Union (IAU).
The upcoming 2024 IAU General Assembly will be held in Cape Town, South Africa. This is a significant milestone because it’s the first time the assembly has taken place on the African continent in the 105 years of the IAU’s history. This achievement is important for both the IAU and South Africa.
The IAU General Assembly is the largest global meeting for astronomers, scientists, and researchers to discuss advancements in space research and promote international cooperation. More than 2,000 experts from 82 countries will gather in Cape Town, showcasing the city as a vital center for scientific discussion and innovation.
Ghana’s Ambitions
During the event, Dr. Naomi Asabre Frimpong, a Research Scientist at the Ghana Space Science and Technology Institute, shared that Ghana is indeed planning to enter space. However, she emphasized the need for significant investment in space technology and research, as the current infrastructure in Ghana is not yet ready for missions to places like the International Space Station.
Addressing concerns about Ghana’s satellite technology, Dr. Frimpong expressed confidence in Ghanaian talent. She said, “Ghanaians are really brilliant. We have a lot of potential and can achieve a lot with our limited resources. With support from the government and our universities, we can contribute to the international scientific community. We should not underestimate our scientists. We can do more with more support.”
Support from South Africa
South Africa is eager to partner with countries like Ghana to enhance contributions to the global astronomy community. Thoko Modise, the General Manager for Communications at Brand South Africa, expressed excitement about this collaboration, stating, “We are thrilled to work with the International Astronomical Union for the 2024 General Assembly. Hosting this event in Cape Town showcases South Africa’s role in global astronomy and our commitment to international collaboration and innovation.”
The 2024 IAU General Assembly is a great opportunity for South African scientists to highlight their advancements in astronomy, particularly their work on the Square Kilometre Array (SKA) project.
In summary, Ghana’s plans to launch a rocket into space, alongside its potential partnerships with other countries, signal a bright future for the nation in the field of space science. With support and collaboration, Ghanaian scientists are ready to make significant contributions to the global scientific community.
