Kenya is nearing to launch its first scientific Earth Observation Satellite on April 10, a landmark achievement for the country’s space program.
The launch of the scientific satellite, dubbed Taifa-1 will be officially announced at Kenya Space Agency Headquarters (KSAH) by the Principal Secretary for Defence, Patrick Mariru.
Taifa-1, or Nation-1, is scheduled to be launched this coming Monday aboard the SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from the Vandenberg Space Force Base in California.
The defence ministry and Kenya Space Agency said in a joint statement that the mission is an important milestone, adding that it would contribute to the country’s shooting space economy.
The observation satellite is designed and developed by Kenyan engineers and will be used to provide data on agriculture and food security, among other outlined areas, the statement reads.
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Testing and manufacturing of the parts were done in collaboration with a Bulgarian Aerospace Manufacturer, the statement added.
The satellite launch will add to a push by African nations for scientific innovation and the development of space programs.
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In 2018, Kenya launched its first experimental Nano-satellite from the International Space Station.
As of 2022, about 13 African countries had manufactured 48 satellites, according to Space in Africa, a Nigeria-based firm that tracks African space programs.
